When is Thrombolysis for Acute Lower Limb Ischemia Worthwhile?

ObjectivesTo find variables associated with outcome following thrombolytic treatment for acute lower limb ischemia.DesignRe-analysis of a prospective multicentre study.Material and methodsOne hundred and twenty-one patients with acute lower limb ischemia previously included in a randomised study comparing high- with low-dose thrombolysis were re-analysed ignoring the mode of lytic treatment. All possibly predictive variables were subjected to multivariate analyses to find associations with outcome.ResultsPrevious successful thrombolysis, ankle–brachial index over 0.33, absence of motor dysfunction, presence of cardiac arrhythmia, and lysis of a vascular graft were all associated with successful thrombolysis (p = 0.003). Previous thrombolysis, age less than 70 years, and ankle–brachial index over 0.33 were all perfect predictors of absence of life-threatening complications or death. Successful lysis, age < 70, and lysis of a native artery as opposed to a vascular graft were all associated with clinical success (preserved patency, limb, and life) after one year (p = 0.002).ConclusionsPrevious thrombolysis, age under 70 years, and non-severe ischemia predict successful thrombolysis free from severe complications. Successful thrombolysis is strongly predictive of amputation-free survival with vascular patency for at least one year. Occluded grafts could often be reopened, but long-term outcome is better after thrombolysis of native arteries.     

Comparação do bloqueio do canal adutor para analgesia em cirurgia artroscópica com ropivacaína isolada e ropivacaína + clonidina

Background and objectivesInadequate pain relief after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction affects mobility leading to development of adhesions, weakened ligament insertion and muscle atrophy. Adductor canal block for postoperative analgesia preserves quadriceps strength. The present study was conducted to compare pain free period in patients undergoing arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, receiving ultrasound‐guided adductor canal block with ropivacaine alone and ropivacaine with clonidine.MethodsA prospective randomized double blinded study was conducted including sixty‐three adult, ASA class I, II patients undergoing anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction. They were randomized into three groups: Group S – control group received adductor canal block with 30 mL saline, Group R – ropivacaine group received adductor canal block with 30 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine and Group RC – clonidine group received adductor canal block with 30 mL of 0.375% ropivacaine with clonidine 1 μg.kg⁻¹. The primary aim was to compare the pain free period in patients receiving adductor canal block with ropivacaine alone or ropivacine with clonidine. The secondary outcomes were pain score at rest and movement, total analgesic requirement, sedation score and postoperative nausea and vomiting.ResultsThe mean pain free periods were 20 min, 384.76 min and 558.09 min for Group S, Group R and Group RC, respectively and this difference was statistically significant (p < 0.001). There was no significant difference between Group R and Group RC in terms of pain scores at rest and movement and total analgesic requirement.ConclusionAddition of clonidine to ropivacaine in USG guided adductor canal block led to significant prolongation of pain free period though pain score at rest and movement, and rescue analgesic requirement, did not differ.     

Endocarditis marántica

Marantic endocarditis is characterized by the presence of sterile vegetations in the heart valves, and is associated with hypercoagulability states (cancer, autoimmune diseases, HIV). Its main complications are stroke, pulmonary thromboembolism, acute intestinal ischemia and splenic, renal and hepatic infarcts. We present the case of a 57-year-old patient with a history of uterine neoplasia. She went to the emergency department due to sudden loss of strength in the left side of the body. A computed tomography (CT) scan showed right ischemic stroke, and she underwent endovascular reperfusion and thrombectomy. Four days later, she suffered acute respiratory failure, with angio-CT showing pulmonary thromboembolism. Later, paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and distal ischemia in the second toe of the left foot appeared. She was diagnosed with marantic endocarditis by means of transesophageal echocardiography, and died 72 h later due to multiorgan failure. Early diagnosis and treatment with anticoagulation can reduce the mortality of this disease, since it is underdiagnosed, and often only comes to light during postmortem examination.     

Soft tissue hematoma of the neck due to thyroid rupture with unusual mechanism

IntroductionMassive bleeding from the thyroid gland causing airway compromise secondary to indirect neck trauma is rare.Presentation of caseAn 89-year-old woman was transferred to our emergency department due to anterior neck pain after a traffic accident. She had been propelled forward and struck her head on the front mirror during emergency braking. Airway patency was confirmed at the first contact. Although her vital signs were stable at presentation, she gradually suffered from respiratory distress and severe dyspnea, implying airway compression, therefore requiring endotracheal intubation. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a large, encapsulated hematoma in the left thyroid gland lobe extending to the upper mediastinum. Contrast-enhanced CT demonstrated an extravasation of the contrast agent around the left superior thyroid artery. The left thyroid artery was ligated and the hematoma was removed immediately. She had a favorable course without further complications and was discharged 36 days after admission.DiscussionAirway management is the most important consideration in patients with thyroid injury. Treatment should be customized depending on the degree of respiratory distress resulting from of either involvement of the direct airway or secondary compression.ConclusionAlthough hemorrhage from the thyroid gland without blunt trauma is rare, emergency physicians should regard possible thyroid gland rupture in patients with swelling of the neck or acute respiratory failure after direct/indirect trauma to the neck. Observation or operative management for limited or expanding hematoma are appropriately based on fundamental neck trauma principles.     

Anterior subcutaneous internal fixation of the pelvis − what rod-to-bone distance is anatomically optimal?

IntroductionAnterior fixation of the pelvis using subcutaneous supra-acetabular pedicle screw internal fixation (INFIX) has proven to be a useful tool by avoiding the downsides of external fixation in patients where open fixation is not suited.The purpose of this study was to find a rod-to-bone distance for the INFIX that allows for minimal hazard to the inguinal neuro-vascular structures and, at the same time, as little as possible interference with the soft tissues of the proximal thigh when the patient is sitting.MethodsAn INFIX was applied to 10 soft-embalmed cadaver pelvises with three different rod-to-bone distances. With each configuration, the relations of the rod to the neuro-vascular and the muscular surroundings were measured in supine and sitting position.ResultsExcept for the femoral artery, vein and nerve, all investigated anatomical structures of the groin were under compression with a rod-to-bone distance of 1 cm. With a rod-to-bone distance of 2 cm most of the anatomical structures were safe in supine position, although less than with 3 cm. With hip flexion some structures got under compression, especially the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN, 80%) and the anterior cutaneous branches of the femoral nerve (ACBFN, 35%). With a rod-to-bone distance of 3 cm almost all anatomical structures were safe in supine position, while with hip flexion most superficial structures of the proximal thigh got under compression, especially the LFCN (75%) and the ACBFN (60%).ConclusionsAiming for a rod-to-bone distance of 2 cm is the safest way with regard to compression of the femoral neuro-vascular bundle and at the same time leads to the least compression of more superficial structures like the LFCN, the ACBFN, or the sartorius and the rectus femoris muscles in sitting position.     

Interventional treatment of bleeding complications due to percutaneous cannulation for peripheral extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

PurposeThis study aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of interventional techniques as a treatment for bleeding complications secondary to percutaneous cannulation for peripheral extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (PECMO).Materials and methodsOut of 1264 patients who underwent PECMO at our hospital between January 2009 and September 2018, we reviewed the clinical characteristics and outcomes of eight patients (4 men, 4 women; mean age, 54.9 years [range, 31–77 years]) who underwent percutaneous interventional treatment for bleeding complications secondary to percutaneous cannulation for PECMO.ResultsBoth hemodynamic instability and coagulopathy were present in 7 patients who had direct injury during PECMO insertion and absent in one patient with pseudoaneurysm at the PECMO removal site. Percutaneous ultrasound-guided thrombin injection was performed in three patients with pseudoaneurysm of the common or superficial femoral artery, and adjunctive embolization was combined with microcoils or n-butyl 2-cyanoacrylate in two of them. Stent graft was inserted in four patients with contrast extravasation (n = 3) from external iliac artery (n = 1) or common femoral or iliac veins (n = 2) ruptures or the fistula between the superficial femoral artery and vein (n = 1). N-butyl 2-cyanoacrylate and coil embolization was performed for pseudoaneurysm from the internal pudendal artery branch in the remaining one patient. Technical success was achieved in all eight patients. There were no procedure-related complications. There was no rebleeding during the follow-up.ConclusionInterventional treatment is a safe, technically feasible and therapeutically effective modality for treating bleeding complications secondary to a percutaneous cannulation for PECMO.     

“Anterior subcutaneous pelvic internal fixator (INFIX), Is it safe?” A cadaveric study

IntroductionAnterior pelvic internal fixator (INFIX) is used to treat unstable pelvic ring injuries. Nerve injury complications with this procedure have been reported.ObjectivesThis anatomic study attempted to identify structures at risk after application of INFIX.Materials and methodsINFIX was applied in fifteen fresh, frozen, anatomical specimens using polyaxial pedicular screws and subcutaneous rods. Surgical dissection was done to identify the structures at risk including the femoral nerve (FN), femoral artery (FA), femoral vein (FV) and the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) related to which are potentially affected by the implant.ResultsAll structures at risk were closer to the rod than to the pedicular screw. Measurements were made between the rod and the structures at risk. The LFCN was an average of 13.49 ± 1.65 mm (95% CI 12.871–14.103) from the lateral end of the rod. The FN was an average of 12.43 ± 3.42 mm (95% CI 11.151–13.709), the FA was an average of 12.80 ± 3.67 (95% CI 11.430–14.173) and the FV was an average of 13.48 ± 3.73 (95% CI 12.082–14.871) below the rod. No direct compression of the rod to the structure at risk was observed.ConclusionsThe femoral nerve is the structure most at risk of compression by the INFIX rod. Careful surgical technique is required in every step of this surgery. We suggest using polyaxial screws and recommend that during screw insertion the surgeon should leave some space between the screw and rectus fascia. The the rod should be trimmed as short as possible to reduce LFCN irritation.     

Safe zone for the superficial femoral artery demonstrated on computed tomography angiography

IntroductionInternal or external fixation of the femur is common following trauma. Neurovascular structures around the shaft of the femur are at risk, particularly the superficial femoral artery (SFA). Damage to this structure, when it is medial to the femur, can occur during the lateral approach, when drills, pins or screws are inserted. This anatomical study aims to delineate a safe zone for operative intervention to the shaft of the femur with respect to the SFA, and describe the relationship between this zone and the width and length of the femur.Materials and methods41 limbs from 22 patients were examined using Computed Tomography Angiography to determine the relationship between the SFA and the medial shaft of the femur. The danger zone where the SFA lies medial to the shaft of the femur in the sagittal plane was identified and measured, and the width and length of the femur were measured for reference points.ResultsThe SFA begins anterior to the shaft of the femur proximally and passes posteriorly, crossing the shaft of the femur in the sagittal plane at points 239.6 ± 39.8 mm and 172.5 ± 40.9 mm proximal to the adductor tubercle (AT). The width of the femur correlates to the inferior crossing point of the SFA on the femur with a mean ratio of 1:2.05, p = 0.000, the length of the femur correlates to the mid crossing point of the SFA on the femur with a ratio of 2.00:1, p = 0.000.ConclusionsThere is a safe zone along the medial shaft of the femur, which can be estimated intraoperatively using anatomical reference points.     

Severe fatal protein malnutrition and liver failure in a morbidly obese patient after mini-gastric bypass surgery: Case report

IntroductionMini-gastric bypass (MGB) is a bariatric surgical technique popular in many centers due to shorter duration, easier technique, and excellent weight loss results. However, it may be associated with postoperative malnutrition. This case describes the clinical course and unfortunate outcome of a morbidly obese patient who underwent MGB and developed malnutrition in the first postoperative year.Presentation of caseA 37 year-old female patient with a BMI of 44 kg/m² successfully underwent MGB surgery in June 2015 and was discharged uneventfully. She presented with lower extremity edema and generalized weakness 8 months later, with a blood albumin level of 3.1 g/dL, compared to a normal preoperative value. She was admitted and received a high-protein diet, and her clinical condition improved. Three months after her discharge, she was readmitted with the same complaints, as well as pancytopenia. She was also hypocupremic. After unsuccessful intensive supportive measures, she finally underwent revisional gastrogastrostomy. However, she developed signs and symptoms of profound liver failure postoperatively (albumin 1.8 g/dL; total bilirubin 7.5 mg/dL; prothrombin time 34 s) and pancytopenia persisted. All resuscitative measures were unsuccessful and she expired in July 2016.DiscussionMultiple factors can contribute to postoperative malnutrition and liver dysfunction after MGB, including the presence of baseline liver disease, inadequate diet supplementation, leaving a too-short common small intestinal channel, and ethnic variations in small bowel length. These factors should also be considered when deciding to perform corrective surgery.ConclusionCareful, individualized treatment and follow-up plans may help to prevent such catastrophic consequences.     

Desmoid tumour of the breast as a manifestation of Gardner's syndrome

INTRODUCTIONDesmoid tumours of the breast are rare. Although benign, they can mimic breast cancer on physical examination, mammography and breast ultrasound and can also be locally invasive. Even though they occur sporadically, they can also be seen as a part of Gardner's syndrome. We describe a case of desmoid tumour in a woman with Gardner's syndrome where the lesion was mammographically occult.PRESENTATION OF CASEA 63-year old woman presented with four months history of a painful left breast lump. She had a screening mammogram seven months ago which was normal. She is known to have Gardner's syndrome and had a total colectomy, she has also had multiple abdominal desmoids excised in the past. On examination there was a 4 cm × 5 cm firm, mobile lump in the left breast. Her mammograms in the clinic were also normal. Ultrasound suggested a benign lesion of the breast and a core biopsy showed it to be a benign spindle cell lesion. She underwent wide local excision of the lump, the intraoperative mammograms of the excised specimen also failed to detect the lesion. Histopathology of the excised specimen confirmed the tumour to be a benign desmoid tumour. She has now been offered radiotherapy and nonsteriodal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce her chances of a local recurrence.CONCLUSIONA high index of suspicion and a thorough triple examination protocol is necessary to detect rare lesions like a desmoid tumour which can masquerade as breast carcinoma.     

Radiological assessment of the safe zone for medial minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis in the distal femur with computed tomography angiography

IntroductionSurgical treatment options for distal femur fractures include intramedullary nailing or plating using a lateral or lateral parapatellar approach. However, medial plating is required for additional stability in some fractures such as severely comminuted fractures and periprosthetic fractures, and in those for which use of a lateral plate or nail is not appropriate. This study aimed to explore the safe zone for medial minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis of the distal femur with computed tomography angiography.Material and methodsIn a series of 30 patients, the region of interest between the lesser trochanter (LT) to the adductor tubercle (AT) was divided into six levels (I to VI), and the distance from the femur to the femoral artery (FA) was measured. At each level, the medial half of the femur was divided into eight sections that were assigned ‘A to H’ from anteromedial to posteromedial, and the position of the FA and the deep femoral artery (DFA) was recorded.ResultsThe average length from the LT to AT was 295.0 mm. The average distance to FA was 38.0 mm, 29.9 mm, 26.9 mm, 27.0 mm, 21.8 mm, and 12.2 mm from level I to VI, respectively. The FA was positioned posteromedially below level IV and positioned at C–H below level II, which was out of the anterior aspect of the femur. The DFA was in the same location as the FA between levels II and III.ConclusionThe anteromedial aspect of the distal half of the femur is the safe zone, and a long plate can be positioned safely in this zone at the anterior aspect up to the level of 8 cm below the LT.     

Utilidad de la embolización vascular prequirúrgica de tumores renales con trombo tumoral en la vena renal izquierda

Introduction and objectivesPreoperative renal artery embolization (PRAE) for large renal masses may be performed prior to nephrectomy in order to simplify the procedure and reduce intraoperative bleeding. The objective of this work is to determine the role of PRAE on intraoperative bleeding and postoperative complications in left renal tumors with tumor thrombus limited to the left renal vein (level 0).Material and methodsRetrospective analysis to evaluate 46 patients who underwent left radical nephrectomy and thrombectomy for the treatment of renal cell carcinoma with level 0 tumor thrombus during the period 1990-2020. PRAE was limited to those cases in which surgical access to the main renal artery was presumed a priori difficult in the preoperative imaging study (n = 9; 19.6%). Intraoperative bleeding was estimated based on the perioperative transfusion rate, and postoperative complications were categorized according to the Clavien-Dindo classification. The Chi-squared test was used for comparisons. A multivariate analysis was performed to identify predictors of transfusion and complications.ResultsThere were no significant differences in the overall complication rate (11.1% vs. 32.4%, P = .19), major complication rate (0% vs.8.1%, P = .51), or transfusion rate (11.1% vs. 19%, P = .49) between both groups (PRAE vs. non-PRAE). In the multivariate analysis, PRAE did not behave as a predictor of complications (OR:0.11, 95%CI 0.01-2.86; P = .18) nor transfusion (OR:0.46, 95%CI 0.02-7.38;P = .58).ConclusionsIn our study on left renal cell carcinomas with level 0 tumor thrombus and difficult access to the main renal artery, PRAE was not associated with increased bleeding or postoperative complications, and it did not behave as an independent predictor of these variables. Therefore, it could be used as a preoperative maneuver to facilitate vascular management in selected cases.     

Expert tibia nail for subtrochanteric femoral fracture to prevent thermal injury

IntroductionSubtrochanteric femoral fractures are relatively uncommon, accounting for 7–15% of all hip fractures and treatment of these fractures are considered challenge for orthopaedic surgeons. Although several treatment options are reported with up to 90% of satisfactory results, the choice of the appropriate implant is still a matter of debate. Some authors reported thermal injury after reaming for intramedullary nail fixation in patients with narrow medullary canal.Presentation of caseA 21-year-old female patient was admitted to our hospital because of right subtrochanteric femoral fracture. The narrowest diameter of medullary canal of her femur was about 7 mm but she refused open reduction and internal fixation with plate due to large scar formation. We used expert tibia nail instead of femoral intramedullary nail to prevent thermal injury.DiscussionSubtrochanteric femoral fractures are difficult to treat because of their biomechanical and anatomical characteristics. Although several implants are reported for the surgical treatment of these fractures, intramedullary nails have been advocated due to their biological and biomechanical advantages. However, under certain circumstances with associated injury or anatomic difference we might consider another treatment options.ConclusionExpert tibia nail may be considered one of the treatment options for subtrochanteric femoral fracture with narrow medullary canal. We also emphasize the importance of preoperative evaluation of the medullary canal size for these risky fractures.     

Analysis of femoral artery intima-media thickness during the cardiac cycle

BackgroundVariations in the intima-media thickness (IMT) of the carotid artery during the cardiac cycle are well established. The change in femoral IMT during the cardiac cycle is largely unknown. This study focuses on the variation of femoral IMT, vessel diameter, and cross-sectional area (CSA) of the IMT during the cardiac cycle.MethodsVideo clips of the femoral artery were obtained using B-mode ultrasonography in 60 patients between the ages of 18 and 50. IMT and diameter measurements were made using automated software, and CSA was subsequently calculated. Triplicate measurements of each femoral artery were made at three points in the cardiac cycle: the R wave, the T wave, and at the point of maximal vessel diameter falling after the T wave and before the following P wave.ResultsFemoral IMT, diameter, and CSA did not show a statistically significant difference with measurement on the R versus the T wave (P > 0.36, P > 0.28, and P > 0.76, respectively). Interestingly, when comparing measurements on the R or T wave with measurements taken at the maximum vessel diameter, there was a statistically significant difference in vessel diameter (P < 0.001) and CSA (P < 0.005) but not in femoral IMT (P > 0.2).ConclusionsUnlike studies of the carotid artery, there were no statistically significant differences between measurements made at the R versus the T wave. There were, however, statistically significant differences noted in diameter and CSA when measurements were taken at a point later in the cardiac cycle. This has ramifications for future studies on vascular remodeling.     

Carotid free-floating thrombus causing stroke in a young woman with lupus anticoagulant: A case report and review of the literature

IntroductionIn young adults Stroke is a challenging condition and various tests are needed to diagnose and manage its underlying problems. Free floating thrombosis of internal carotid artery (FFT-ICA) is one of the rare problems among carotid artery diseases which can lead to stroke in adults. Owing to limited cases of FFT-ICA there is not a worldwide accepted consensus on management of FFT-ICA, but some recurrences after medical management have been reported in the literature.Presentation of caseA-25-year old woman was referred to hospital with sudden onset aphasia and right sided hemiparesis. Carotid duplex ultrasonography showed an iso-echogenic thrombus ranged about 5 × 10 mm partially attached to arterial wall of the right internal carotid artery. It was floating in accordance with the heartbeat. Anticoagulation therapy was initiated and subsequently she underwent an urgent operation. To explore the etiology of her problem, various lab tests were carried out; the results showed markedly elevated levels of lupus anticoagulant. She was discharged from hospital after an uneventful recovery showing gradual improvement of symptoms in follow-up visits.DiscussionFFT-ICA is one of the scarce disorders of carotid artery. Less than 150 cases have been reported in the literature indicating its common occurrence in old men. Hence the etiology of this case (FFT in a young patient with high levels of lupus anticoagulant antibody) may be the first of its type.ConclusionIn this case we chose surgical treatment resulting in complete resolution of symptoms and non-recurrence within 6 month follow-up.     

Novel technique to accurately measure femoral diameter using a Thomas splint

IntroductionDuring surgical management of femoral shaft fractures, difficulties arise when treating patients with narrow femoral diaphyseal canals, such as young patients and those with dysplastic femurs secondary to underlying pathology. Accurate pre-operative assessment of the femoral diaphyseal canal diameter would allow the surgeon to plan surgical technique and ensure appropriate equipment was available, such as narrow, unreamed or paediatric sized nails.TechniqueWhen secured to the patient both longitudinal rods of the main Thomas Splint component lie parallel with the femoral shaft and horizontal to the radiographic x-ray plate. The diameter of these rods are 13 mm (Adult and paediatric). Using the calibration tool, we calibrate the diameter of the Thomas Splint to 13 mm, accurately measuring any further detail on that radiograph, such as the diaphyseal canal diameter.ConclusionAccurate knowledge pre-operatively of radiographic measurements is highly valuable to the operating surgeon. This technique can accurately measure femoral canal diameter using the Thomas splint, negates the requirement for a calibration marker, is reproducible, easy to perform, and is indispensible when faced with a patient with a narrow femoral canal in a diaphyseal femoral fracture. (181 words)     

Diagnosis and operative management of a perforated de Garengeot hernia

IntroductionA de Garengeot hernia, a femoral hernia containing the appendix, is a difficult diagnosis often made intra-operatively when the hernia sac is opened. It is a rare finding, and complications are more frequent with a de Garengeot hernia.Presentation of caseA 92 year-old female presented to the emergency department (ED) complaining of abdominal pain. A computed tomographic (CT) scan of the abdomen and pelvis demonstrated a hernia anterior to the inguinal ligament without strangulation. Two weeks later the patient returned to the ED with worsening abdominal pain in the right lower quadrant. Repeat CT scan demonstrated a 7 × 4 cm complex fluid collection in the right inguinal region, and the patient was taken to the operating room for exploration. The hernia sac was entered and found to contain the appendix with evidence of distal perforation. The appendix was taken out, and the hernia defect was repaired. The patient tolerated the procedure well.DiscussionFemoral hernias have a high risk of incarceration due to the tightness of the femoral canal (Talini et al. 2015 [4]). Due to anatomic location of the appendix, de Garengeot hernias are most often seen on the right. Incarceration of the appendix is a clear etiology for appendicitis secondary to ischemia.ConclusionFull preoperative workup for a femoral hernia often fails to diagnose the presence of the appendix within the hernia. It is important to have a high clinical suspicion for a de Garengeot’s hernia in patients with incarcerated or strangulated right femoral hernias.     

Use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy and PEGylated carboxyhemoglobin bovine in a Jehovah’s Witness with life-threatening anemia following postpartum hemorrhage

We present a case of a Jehovah’s Witness patient who refused blood products, with the exception of albumin and clotting factors, and underwent cesarean section under spinal anesthesia complicated by postpartum hemorrhage. She was fluid resuscitated and treated with multiple uterotonics and internal iliac artery embolization. Because of agitation she required emergency tracheal intubation. Her hemoglobin concentration dropped from a preoperative value of 12 mg/dL to 3 mg/dL on postoperative day one. She was acidotic, requiring vasopressors for hemodynamic stability and remained ventilated and sedated. She was treated with daily erythropoietin, iron therapy and cyanocobalamin. Because of ongoing hemorrhage, continued acidemia and vasopressor requirements she was co-treated with PEGylated carboxyhemoglobin bovine and hyperbaric oxygen therapy to reverse her oxygen debt. On postoperative day eight her hemoglobin concentration was 7 mg/dL, she was hemodynamically stable and vasopressors were discontinued. She was extubated and discharged from the intensive care unit on postoperative day eight. This report highlights the multiple modalities used in treating a severely anemic patient who refused blood, the use of an investigational new drug, the process of obtaining this drug via the United States Food and Drug Administration emergency expanded access regulation for single patient clinical treatment, and ethical dilemmas faced during treatment.     

PTFE Bypass or Thrupass for Superficial Femoral Artery Occlusion? A Randomised Controlled Trial

Early results of a thrupass endograft in the treatment of femoral lesions are promising. Less morbidity and better cost-effectiveness are suggested to be achieved in the treatment of chronic lower limb ischaemia with endovascular treatment compared to surgical treatment.Patients and methodsThis randomised multicentre trial aimed to enroll a group of 60 + 60 patients for the treatment of 5–25-cm occlusions of superficial femoral artery (SFA) to be followed up for 3 years. Patients were treated either with endoluminal PTFE thrupass (WL Gore & Ass) or with surgical polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) bypass to proximal popliteal artery. Primary patency at 3 years was scheduled to be the primary end-point and secondary patency, functional success, costs and quality of life the secondary end-points.ResultsA sample of 100 consecutive SFA occlusions in one of the centres revealed that only 4% of the lesions were amenable for the study. The trial was prematurely terminated due to the results of an interim analysis at the time when 44 patients were recruited: the 1-year primary patency (excluding technical failures) was 48% for thrupass and 95% for bypass (p = 0.02). The patency difference in favour of surgical bypass over endovascular thrupass was also sustained after completion of 1-year follow-up, the primary patencies being 46% and 84% at 1 year with grossly equilinear life-table curves thereafter (p = 0.18), respectively. The corresponding secondary patencies were 63% and 100% (p = 0.05) when excluding technical failures and 58% and 100% (p = 0.02) according to intention-to-treat analysis. Secondary outcomes were thus not analysed.ConclusionTreatment of SFA occlusions (TASC IIB and C or Imelda Ia and II) should be done by PTFE bypass rather than by PTFE thrupass, as thrupass is connected with worse early outcome. These results represent only a small category of femoral disease.     

Localized constrictive pericarditis compressing and obstructing the right ventricular inflow tract due to a giant anterior calcified cardiac mass. A case report

IntroductionLocalized pericardial constriction is a rare form of constrictive pericarditis CP. Depending on the CP location, clinical presentation may be variable, including compression and obstruction of right ventricular inflow tract(RVIT), coronary obstruction, or pulmonary stenosis.Case presentationA 72-year-old man presented a 2-year history of dyspnea and atrial fibrillation. A contrast enhanced angio computerized tomography clearly demonstrated a large spherical mass about 11 × 9 × 4 cm in the anterior pericardium, presenting as a mediastinal tumor causing compression and obstruction of the RVIT. The patient underwent surgical procedure. The outer calcified layer of the pericardial mass was a thick layer of calcification surrounding an inner amorphous low density material. The inferior calcified layer of the pericardial mass which was extremely adherent with the epicardium, was carefully excised, without employment of cardiopulmonary bypass, from the aorta and pulmonary artery origin to the diaphragm and all areas between the right and left phrenic nerves. The final diagnosis was idiopathic CP.DiscussionThe clinical presentation was due to right ventricular free wall compression and obstruction of the RVIT by a giant calcified anterior cardiac mass. The differential diagnosis with other calcified masses in the anterior mediastinum such as teratoma, hemopericardium after blunt trauma and idiopathic or tuberculous CP should be considered.ConclusionHerein we report a very rare case with localized CP causing compression and obstruction of RVIT due to a giant anterior calcified cardiac mass, treated successfully with pericardectomy. Careful dissection is mandatory for a successful procedure.