Pulsatile Distension of the Proximal Aneurysm Neck is Larger in Patients with Stent Graft Migration

PurposeThe proximal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) neck expands significantly during the cardiac cycle, both before and after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). Clinical consequences of this pulsatility were anticipated but have never been reported. This study investigated whether there is a relation between stent graft migration and preoperatively measured pulsatility of the proximal aneurysm neck.MethodsEVAR patients with a preoperative dynamic computed tomography angiography (CTA), an immediate postoperative, and a CTA at 3 years after EVAR were included. The preoperative dynamic CTAs consisted of eight images per heartbeat. Aortic diameter and area changes per heartbeat were measured at two levels: (A) 3 cm above and (B) 1 cm below the most distal renal artery. Postoperatively, the distance between the most distal renal artery and the most proximal stent graft ring was measured. Two patient groups were distinguished according to whether migration during follow-up occurred (group 1) or had not occurred (group 2). The aneurysm neck dynamics of the two groups were compared by using the t-test for unpaired data and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. Mean values are presented with the standard deviation.ResultsIncluded were 26 patients (19 Talent, 6 Excluder and 1 Lifepath). Stent graft migration of ≥5 mm occurred in 11 patients (group 1). The pulsatility of the AAA neck in these patients was compared with the pulsatility in 15 patients with no graft migration (group 2). There were no significant differences in aortic neck characteristics (angulation, length and diameter) or degree of stent graft oversizing between the two groups. At level A in group 1 versus group 2, the diameter increase during the cardiac cycle was 2.0 ± 0.3 versus 1.7 ± 0.3 mm and the aortic area increase was 49 ± 15 versus 33 ± 12 mm². At level B in group 1 versus group 2, the diameter increase per heartbeat was 1.8 ± 0.3 versus 1.6 ± 0.4 mm, and the area increase was 37 ± 10 versus 25 ± 15 mm². The heartbeat-dependent diameter and area changes at both levels were significantly higher in group 1 compared with group 2. Multivariate regression analysis showed suprarenal aortic pulsatility was a significant predictor for stent graft migration after 3 years.ConclusionThe preoperative heartbeat-dependent aneurysm neck distension is significantly associated with stent graft migration after 3 years. The aortic pulsatility in patients with stent graft migration is significantly higher than the pulsatility in patients without stent graft migration.     

Value of aortic volumes assessed by automated segmentation of 3D MRI data in patients with thoracic aortic dilatation: A case-control study

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to investigate the benefit of aortic volumes compared to diameters or cross-sectional areas on three-dimensional (3D) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in discriminating between patients with dilated aorta and matched controls.Materials and methodsSixty-two patients (47 men and 15 women; median age, 66 years; age range: 33–86 years) with tricuspid aortic valve and ascending thoracic aorta aneurysm (TAV-ATAA) and 43 patients (35 men and 8 women; median age, 51 years; age range: 17–76 years) with bicuspid aortic valve and dilated ascending aorta (BAV) were studied. One group of 54 controls matched for age and sex to patients with TAV-ATAA (39 men and 15 women; median age, 68 years; age range: 33–81 years) and one group of 42 controls matched for age and sex to patients with BAV (34 men and 8 women; median age, 50 years; age range: 17–77 years) were identified. All participants underwent 3D MRI, used for 3D-segmentation for measuring aortic length, maximal diameter, maximal cross-sectional area (CSA) and volume for the ascending aorta.ResultsAn increase in ascending aorta volume (TAV-ATAA: +107%; BAV: +171% vs. controls; P < 0.001) was found, which was three times greater than the increase in diameter (TAV-ATAA: +29%; BAV: +40% vs. controls; P < 0.001). In differentiating patients with TAV-ATAA from their controls, the indexed ascending aorta volume showed better performances (AUC, 0.935 [95% confidence interval (CI): 0.882–0.989]; accuracy, 88.7% [95% CI: 82.9–94.5]) than indexed ascending aorta length (P < 0.001), indexed ascending aorta maximal diameter (P = 0.003) and indexed ascending aorta maximal CSA (P = 0.03). In differentiating patients with BAV from matched controls, indexed ascending aorta volume showed significantly better performances performance (AUC, 0.908 [95% CI: 0.829–0.987]; accuracy, 88.0% [95% CI: 80.9–95.0]) than indexed ascending aorta length (P = 0.02) and not different from indexed ascending aorta maximal diameter (P = 0.07) or from indexed ascending aorta maximal CSA (P = 0.27)ConclusionAortic volume measured by 3D-MRI integrates both elongation and luminal dilatation, resulting in greater classification performance than maximal diameter and length in differentiating patients with dilated ascending aorta or aneurysm from controls.     

Is routine computed tomography angiography justified in patients undergoing aortic valve replacement for bicuspid aortic valve disease?

Background

Role of Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA) in patients with Bicuspid Aortic Valve (BAV) undergoing Aortic Valve Replacement (AVR) needs assessment.

Patients and Methods

After echocardiography, 54 patients with BAV were referred for AVR. CTA was performed routinely. Pre-operative characteristics, echocardiographic and CTA findings, and details of surgery were obtained.

Results

The study population had 54 subjects (48 males). Median age was 35.5 years (range 7 to 78 years), and median weight was 57.5 Kg (range 14 to 83 kg). On echocardiography, aortic sinus diameter ranged from 13 to 38 mm (median 28 mm). In none of the patients, ascending aorta was reported to be dilated. On CT angiography, the sinus diameter ranged from 16 to 46 mm (median 35 mm). Sinus diameter was ≥40 mm in 13 patients. The sinus diameter on echocardiography was within the range of 0 to 2 mm of CT angiographic estimates in 31 patients, within 2.1 to 5 mm in 22 patients, and more than 5 mm in one patient. The ascending aortic diameter ranged from 19 to 70 mm (median 43 mm). In 26 patients, ascending aortic diameter was ≥45 mm. In 12 patients, the proximal arch diameter was ≥40 mm. In two patients, the distal ascending aorta and proximal arch were aneurysmally dilated (48 mm and 57 mm). In 12 patients, the ascending aorta was dilated (≥ 45 mm) without any sinus dilatation. In one patient, the distal ascending aorta and proximal arch were aneurysmally dilated (57 mm) without any proximal dilatation. Based on CT angiographic findings, 25 patients (46.3 %) underwent additional aortic replacement in the form of Bentall’s procedure (n?=?7), Bentall’s + Hemiarch replacement (n?=?6), aortoplasty (n?=?5), Wheat procedure (n?=?6) and Wheat procedure?+?Hemiarch replacement (n?=?1).

Conclusion

CT angiography is justified as a routine pre-operative evaluation tool in all patients with BAV who are undergoing open heart surgery for significant aortic valve dysfunction.     

The Cardiac Cycle is a Major Contributor to Variability in Size Measurements of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms by Ultrasound

Aim

The objective of the study was to evaluate the impact of the cardiac cycle on ultrasound measurements of abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) diameters.

Methods

In total, 603 AAAs detected by screening were investigated with respect to the maximal systolic and diastolic anterior-posterior aortic diameters during the cardiac cycle using recorded ultrasound video sequences.

Results

On average, the systolic AAA diameter was 41.60 mm, and the diastolic AAA diameter was 39.63 mm with a paired mean difference at 1.94 mm (p < 0.0001). No association between aneurysmal size and difference in systolic and diastolic size was noted.The mean difference and variability between two observers, one measured during peak-systole and the other measured during end-diastole, was 2.65 and 2.21 mm, respectively, as compared with 0.86 and 1.52 mm, respectively, when both were measured during the peak of systole. The intraobserver variability was 0.94 during systole, 1.18 during diastole and 1.94 mm when systole and diastole measurements were combined.

Conclusion

The lack of a standardised measurement of the AAA diameter during the cardiac cycle is a potential major contributor to the variability in ultrasonography measurements.     

Open hemiarch versus clamped ascending aorta replacement for aortopathy during initial bicuspid aortic valve replacement

BackgroundThere is controversy regarding the extent of aortic resection necessary in patients with aortopathy related to bicuspid aortic valve disease. To address this issue, we reviewed our experience in patients undergoing ascending aorta replacement during bicuspid aortic valve replacement.MethodsWe reviewed 702 patients who underwent ascending aorta replacement at the time of initial nonemergent native bicuspid aortic valve replacement at our institution between January 2000 and June 2017. Treatment cohorts included an open hemiarch replacement group (n = 225; 32%) and a clamped ascending aorta replacement group (n = 477; 68%).ResultsMedian patient age was 60 years (interquartile range [IQR], 51-67 years), female sex was present in 113 patients (16%), ejection fraction was 62% (IQR, 56%-66%), and aortic arch diameter was 33 mm (IQR, 29-36 mm). Cardiopulmonary bypass time was longer in the hemiarch replacement group (188 minutes vs 97 minutes; P < .001). Procedure-related complications (36%) and mortality (<1%) were similar in the 2 groups; however, the hemiarch group had an increased odds of blood transfusion (odds ratio, 1.62; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.15-2.28; P = .006). The median duration of follow-up was 6.0 years (95% CI, 5.3-6.8 years). Overall survival was 94 ± 1% at 5 years and 80 ± 2% at 10 years. Multivariable analysis demonstrated similar survival in the 2 groups (hazard ratio, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.51-1.33; P = .439). No repeat aortic arch operations were done for aortopathy over the duration of clinical follow-up.ConclusionsCompared with patients in the clamped ascending aorta replacement group, patients in the hemi-arch replacement group had longer cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross-clamp times, along with an increased risk of blood transfusion, but similar freedom from repeat aortic arch operation and survival. We identified no advantage of performing hemiarch replacement in the absence of aortic arch dilation.     

双封堵器介入治疗多孔性房间隔缺损

目的对双封堵器介入治疗多孔性房间隔缺损(ASD)的可行性与有效性进行临床评估。方法对17例多孔性ASD(12例为2孔,5例为3孔)患者在X线透视和超声心动图监测下植入Amplatzer封堵器,同时闭合2～3个缺损。术后复查ECG、X线平片及TTE以评价其疗效。结果 17例术中超声测量ASD大、中和小缺损直径分别为(13.94±3.21)mm、(9.65±2.64)mm及(4.80±1.92)mm。16例获得成功(16/17,94.12%),1例因第2个ASD不适于封堵而放弃,改行外科手术后痊愈出院。16例植入封堵器32枚,共闭合缺损37个,所植入大、小封堵器直径分别为(20.75±4.07)mm和(16.94±3.75)mm,较术中超声所测大孔及中孔ASD径分别增大(7.06±2.65)mm、(7.44±3.25)mm。术后3例残余微或少量分流(2例为3孔ASD),分别于术后第2、3天及3个月复查时消失。1例发生股动静脉瘘,1个月后消失。随访X线胸片测心胸比及超声测右心室前后径均较术前明显下降(P均<0.01)。结论采用双封堵器介入治疗多孔性ASD安全、有效。     

The impact of female sex on the outcomes of endovascular treatment for iliac lesions

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate early and long-term outcomes of stenting for iliac obstructive disease in women, comparing their results with those of men.MethodsA single-center retrospective analysis of iliac stenting procedures performed from 2010 to 2017 was conducted. Perioperative clinical, anatomic, and operative data, including mean artery diameters and stent diameters, were collected in a dedicated database. Early outcomes and long-term patency rates were compared between men and women; Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to identify independent predictors of patency.ResultsThere were 210 patients (298 limbs; women, n = 80 limbs [33%]; men, n = 218 limbs [66%]) treated. In comparing women with men, there were no differences in comorbidities (Society for Vascular Surgery score: women, 0.81 ± 0.54; men, 0.84 ± 0.60; P = .69) and TransAtlantic Inter-Society Consensus (TASC) classification (P = .49). At presentation, women had more advanced symptoms (Rutherford categories 5 and 6: women, 36.2%; men, 23.8%; P = .039) and smaller diameter at the level of the aortic bifurcation (women, 14.5 ± 3.6 mm; men, 16.0 ± 3.3 mm; P = .017), common iliac artery (women, 9.3 ± 1.5 mm; men, 10.0 ± 1.6 mm; P < .001), external iliac artery (EIA; women, 8.7 ± 1.5 mm; men, 10.1 ± 2.6 mm; P = .006), and common femoral artery (women, 7.3 ± 2.0 mm; men, 8.5 ± 2.1 mm; P = .034); similarly, the mean stent diameter was smaller (women, 8.9 ± 1.7 mm; men, 10.1 ± 4.4 mm; P = .03). The 30-day medical (P = .22) and surgical (P = .50) complication rates were similar. At 72 months, women had lower primary patency (women, 71%; men, 88%; P = .020) and secondary patency (women, 83%; men, 97%; P < .001) rates compared with men, whereas limb salvage rate was similar (women, 96%; men, 99%; P = .501). Multivariable analysis showed that female sex (hazard ratio [HR], 2.49; P = .04), ischemic tissue loss (HR, 2.48; P = .04), and stent diameter ≤7 mm (HR, 2.86; P = .01) were overall negative predictors of patency. Within women, EIA involvement (HR, 2.01; P = .04) and stent diameter ≤7 mm (HR, 3.79; P = .12) were also negative predictors.ConclusionsIliac stenting shows similarly good early outcomes in women and men. However, in the long term, primary and secondary patency rates are significantly lower in women, and this may be explained by smaller arterial diameter. In particular, a stent diameter ≤7 mm and EIA stenting were negative predictors of patency.     

Posterior interosseous nerve of the elbow at the arcade of Frohse: Ultrasound appearance in asymptomatic subjects

PurposeTo assess the normal values of the antero-posterior (AP) diameter of the posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) of the elbow as it passes beneath the arcade of Frohse and to search for PIN-diameter differences between the upstream, entry point and downstream of the arcade.Material and methodsThirty asymptomatic patients prospectively underwent bilateral B-mode ultrasound of the PIN of the elbow. There were 15 men and 15 women with a mean age of 30.2 ± 5.31 (SD) years (range: 26–43 years). Of these, 23 patients were right-handers (23/30; 77%) and 7 were left handers (7/30; 23%). AP diameter of the PIN was measured in long axis at three different locations including the entry point of the arcade, 5-mm upstream and 5-mm downstream the arcade. A comparison between the three measurements was performed using paired t-test.ResultsThe mean AP diameters of the PIN were 0.83 ± 0.21 (SD) mm (range: 0.43–1.31 mm), 0.6 ± 0.17 (SD) mm (range: 0.29–1.16 mm) and 0.49 ± 0.13 (SD) mm (range: 0.26–0.86 mm) at 5-mm upstream, entry point of the arcade and 5-mm downstream the arcade of Frohse, respectively. Significant drops in PIN diameter were found between upstream and the arcade (−0.23 mm; 27%; P < 0.001), between the arcade and downstream (−0.11 mm; 17%; P < 0.001), and between upstream and downstream the arcade (−0.34 mm; 40%; P < 0.001).ConclusionDisparity in AP diameter of the PIN of the elbow in the arcade of Frohse is a normal finding and should not be erroneously interpreted as entrapment when present alone.     

Revision using distal inflow for high flow hemodialysis access alters arterial flow characteristics in the dialysis arm

ObjectiveRevision using distal inflow (RUDI) is currently proposed in patients on hemodialysis having a high flow access (HFA; >2 L/min) or hemodialysis access-induced distal ischemia (HAIDI). However, a recurrence of high flow or hand ischemia is not unusual in the years after RUDI. The aim of the present study was to describe changes in flow characteristics and arterial diameters in the dialysis arm after RUDI for HFA.MethodsVolume flow, diameter, peak systolic velocity and end diastolic velocity of the brachial artery (BA) were studied 2 and 12 months after RUDI using duplex imaging. In a portion of patients, these characteristics were also assessed at proximal and distal portions of radial and ulnar arteries (proximal forearm radial artery, distal radial artery, ulnar artery, and distal ulnar artery), and in the greater saphenous venous interponate. HFA patients were grouped according to presence of concomitant hand ischemia (HFA-HAIDI) or absence (HFA).ResultsFifteen patients (54 ± 16 year old; 10 males; HFA-HAIDI, n = 6; HFA, n = 9) with a BA HFA (flow volume, 2740 ± 322 mL/min) undergoing RUDI were studied between March 2011 and October 2016 in two Dutch hospitals. After 2 months, flow volume had decreased (1180 ± 189 mL/min), but again increased at 12 months (1520 ± 217 mL/min; P < .001). BA diameters did not change (7.4 ± 0.5 mm), but proximal forearm radial diameters doubled (overall 2.6 ± 0.2 mm to 5.4 ±1.0 mm; P < .001), albeit less prominent in HFA-HAIDI (+80%) than in HFA (+130%; P = .019). During follow-up, the distal ulnar artery peak systolic velocity in HFA-HAIDI (83 ± 10 cm/s) was higher compared with the HFA group (54 ± 5 cm/s; P < .01). Dilatation was not present in the greater saphenous venous interponate.ConclusionsRUDI for HFA reduction does not reverse BA dilatation, suggesting irreversible structural arterial wall damage possibly contributing to recurrent high flow. Radial artery remodeling is attenuated in HFA patients previously reporting concurrent hand ischemia diminishing the likelihood of high flow recurrence in this subgroup.     

Morphologic characteristics and endovascular treatment of primary infrarenal aortic dissections

ObjectiveWe report the morphologic characteristics and endovascular treatment of primary infrarenal aortic dissections (PIRADs).MethodsA retrospective study was conducted with 38 consecutive PIRAD patients between January 2010 and May 2016 in our vascular center. Patient demographics, morphologic characteristics, endovascular modalities, and periprocedural and follow-up outcomes were recorded. Patients with symptomatic PIRADs or asymptomatic PIRADs of a maximum diameter >30 mm were indicated for endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). We proposed a morphologic categorization of PIRADs into two types (I and II) according to the location of the entry tears and an endovascular strategy for treating type I PIRADs with tubular stent grafts (SGs) and type II PIRADs with bifurcated SGs.ResultsAccording to the categorization, the study recruited 13 patients with type I and 25 patients with type II PIRADs. The patients were predominantly men, with an average age of 60.8 ± 15.2 years. Type I PIRADs usually had larger true lumens (22.6 ± 6.3 vs 13.6 ± 4.0 mm; P = .002) and relatively smaller false lumens (8.4 ± 2.3 vs 19.9 ± 16.1 mm; P = .012). Type II PIRADs had more entry tears (2.2 ± 0.6 vs 1.7 ± 0.6; P = .024) and longer dissections (109.4 ± 38.8 vs 73.9 ± 39.0 mm; P = .011). All patients underwent EVAR, with 19 tubular and 22 bifurcated SGs. One patient died during the hospital stay. The technical success rate was 94.8% (36/38), and the clinical success rate was 97.4% (37/38). During follow-up of 36 patients for 28.8 ± 17.7 months, 2 patients with type II PIRADs developed left iliac extension occlusion at 3 and 6 months after EVAR, and only 1 patient underwent reintervention. All patients survived throughout the follow-up. No endoleak or aortic enlargement was observed. Computed tomography angiography demonstrated a patent infrarenal aorta with completely thrombosed false lumen in all PIRAD patients (36/36 [100.0%]). In both types of PIRAD, EVAR yielded a significant decrease in the maximum diameter of the infrarenal aorta, with a significant increase in the true lumen size and a significant decrease in the false lumen size (P < .05).ConclusionsThe morphologic categorization of PIRADs based on the location of the entry tears appeared to be feasible. The endovascular strategy was safe and effective, with high rates of technical success and clinical success and favorable follow-up outcomes.     

Ultrasound-guided excision combined with intraoperative assessment of gross macroscopic margins decreases the rate of reoperations for non-palpable invasive breast cancer

AimsThe standard technique for intraoperative tumour localization of clinically occult tumours is wire-guided localization (WGL). This, however, this has several disadvantages. The aim of the present work is to report our single-centre experience with intraoperative ultrasound-guided (IOUS) excision, performed by surgeons, combined with intraoperative assessment of macroscopic pathologic and ultrasound margins in non-palpable invasive cancers indicated for conservative breast therapy.Patients and methodsTwo-hundred and twenty-five non-palpable invasive breast cancers were subjected to excision with IOUS. The lesion was located in the operating room with a high-frequency ultrasound probe (8–12 MHz), which was then used to guide surgical removal. The specimen margins were estimated by ultrasonography and macroscopic pathologic examination. The sensitivity of IOUS and effectiveness in the characterization of the specimen margins were evaluated, assessing the need for reoperation.ResultsPathologic tumour size was 12.0 ± 6.7 mm and 13 lesions (6.4 %) were <5 mm. The sensitivity of IOUS localization was 99.6% (224/225 cases). Only one cancer of less than 5 mm was not localized. The average weight of the specimens was 26.1 g. A second operation was required to remove margins in the 4% of cases (9/225). In 5 cases remains of in situ or invasive carcinoma were found. In two cases, conservative surgery was converted to mastectomy.ConclusionsIOUS excision combined with the intraoperative assessment of the macroscopic margins of non-palpable breast cancers is a safe, useful, and efficient technique. We obtained an excellent characterization of tumour margins with moderate removal of breast tissue and consequently a lower number of reoperations were required and good cosmetic results were obtained. We believe that use of this technique in conservative breast cancer surgery should be recommended.     

Great Saphenous Vein Diameter at the Saphenofemoral Junction and Proximal Thigh as Parameters of Venous Disease Class

BackgroundGreat saphenous vein (GSV) incompetence is involved in the majority of cases of varicose disease. Standardised pre-interventional assessment is required to analyse the relative merit of treatment modalities. We weighed GSV diameter measurement at the sapheno-femoral junction (SFJ) against measurement at the proximal thigh 15 cm distal to the groin (PT), established a conversion factor and applied it to selected literature data.MethodsLegs with untreated isolated GSV reflux and varices limited to its territory and control legs were studied clinically, with duplex ultrasound and photoplethysmography. GSV diameters were measured at both the SFJ and the PT. A conversion factor was calculated and used to compare published data.ResultsOf 182 legs, 60 had no GSV reflux (controls; group I), 51 had above-knee GSV reflux only (group II) and 71 had GSV reflux above and below knee (group III). GSV diameters in group I measured 7.5 mm (±1.8) at the SFJ and 3.7 mm (±0.9) at the PT. In groups II and III, they measured 10.9 mm (±3.9) at the SFJ and 6.3 mm (±1.9) at the PT (p < 0.001 each). Measurement at the PT revealed higher sensitivity and specificity to predict reflux and clinical class. Good correlation between sites of measurement (r = 0.77) allowed a conversion factor (SFJ = 1.767 * PT, PT = 0.566*SFJ) to be applied to pre-interventional data of published studies.ConclusionsGSV diameter correlates with clinical class, measurement at the PT being more sensitive and more specific than measurement at the SFJ. Applying the conversion factor to published data suggests that some studies included patients with minor disease.     

The Impact of Hypovolaemic Shock on the Aortic Diameter in a Porcine Model

ObjectivesTo investigate the impact of hypovolaemic shock on the aortic diameter in a porcine model, and to determine the implications for the endovascular management of hypovolaemic patients with traumatic thoracic aortic injury (TTAI).Materials and methodsThe circulating blood volume of seven Yorkshire pigs was gradually lowered in 10% increments. At 40% volume loss, an endograft was deployed in the descending thoracic aorta, followed by gradual fluid resuscitation. Potential changes in aortic diameter during the experiment were recorded using intravascular ultrasound (IVUS).ResultsThe aortic diameter decreased significantly at all evaluated levels during blood loss. The ascending aortic diameter decreased on average with 38% after 40% blood loss (range 24–62%, p = 0.018), the descending thoracic aorta with 32% (range 18–52%, p = 0.018) and the abdominal aorta with 28% (range 15–39%, p = 0.018). The aortic diameters regained their initial size during fluid resuscitation.ConclusionThe aortic diameter significantly decreases during blood loss in this porcine model. If these changes take place in hypovolaemic TTAI patients as well, it may have implications for thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR). Increased oversizing of the endograft, or additional computed tomography (CT) or IVUS imaging after fluid resuscitation for more adequate aortic measurements, may be needed in TTAI patients with considerable blood loss.     

Mechanical deterioration underlies malignant behavior of aneurysmal human ascending aorta

OBJECTIVE: The human ascending aorta becomes markedly prone to rupture and dissection at a diameter of 6 cm. The mechanical substrate for this malignant behavior is unknown. This investigation applied engineering analysis to human ascending aortic aneurysms and compared their structural characteristics with those of normal aortas. METHODS: We measured the mechanical characteristics of the aorta by direct epiaortic echocardiography at the time of surgery in 33 patients with ascending aortic aneurysm undergoing aortic replacement and in 20 control patients with normal aortas undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting. Six parameters were measured in all patients: aortic diameter in systole and diastole, aortic wall thickness in systole and diastole, and blood pressure in systole and diastole. These were used to calculate mechanical characteristics of the aorta from standard equations. Aortic distensibility reflects the elastic qualities of the aorta. Aortic wall stress reflects the disrupting force experienced within the aortic wall. Incremental elastic modulus indicates loss of elasticity reserve. RESULTS: Aortic distensibility falls to extremely low levels as aortic dimension rises toward 6 cm (3.02 mm Hg(-1) for small aortas versus 1.45 mm Hg(-1) for aortas larger than 5 cm, P < .05). Aortic wall stress rises to 157.8 kPa for the aneurysmal aorta, compared with 92.5 kPa for normal aortas. For 6-cm aortas at pressures of 200 mm Hg or more, wall stress rises to 857 kPa, nearly exceeding the known maximal tensile strength of human aneurysmal aortic wall. Incremental elastic modulus deteriorates (1.93 +/- 0.88 MPa vs 1.18 +/- 0.21 MPa, P < .05) in aneurysmal aortas relative to that in normal aortas. CONCLUSION: The mechanical properties of the aneurysmal aorta deteriorate dramatically as the aorta enlarges, reaching critical levels associated with rupture by a diameter of 6 cm. This mechanical deterioration provides an explanation in engineering terms for the malignant clinical behavior (rupture and dissection) of the aorta at these dimensions. This work adds to our fundamental understanding of the biology of aortic aneurysms and promises to permit future application of engineering measurements to supplement aneurysm size in clinical decision making in aneurysmal disease.     

Intervention rates and outcomes in medically managed uncomplicated descending thoracic aortic dissections

ObjectiveTo evaluate the long-term incidence and outcome of aortic interventions for medically managed uncomplicated thoracic aortic dissections.MethodsBetween January 2012 and December 2018, 91 patients were discharged home with an uncomplicated, medically treated aortic dissection (involving the descending aorta with or without aortic arch involvement, no ascending involvement). After a median period of 4 (first quartile: 2, third quartile: 11) months, 30 patients (33%) required an aortic intervention. Patient characteristics, radiographic, treatment, and follow-up data were compared for patients with and without aortic interventions. A competing risk regression model was analyzed to identify independent predictors of aortic intervention and to predict the risk for intervention.ResultsPatients who underwent aortic interventions had significantly larger thoracic (P = .041) and abdominal (P = .015) aortic diameters, the dissection was significantly longer (P = .035), there were more communications between both lumina (P = .040), and the first communication was significantly closer to the left subclavian artery (P = .049). A descending thoracic aortic diameter exceeding 45 mm was predictive for an aortic intervention (P = .001; subdistribution hazard ratio: 3.51). The risk for aortic intervention was 27% ± 10% and 36% ± 11% after 1 and 3 years, respectively. Fourteen patients (47%) underwent thoracic endovascular aortic repair, 11 patients (37%) thoracic endovascular aortic repair and left carotid to subclavian bypass, 3 patients (10%) total arch replacement with the frozen elephant trunk technique, and 2 patients (7%) thoracoabdominal aortic replacement. We observed no in-hospital mortality.ConclusionsThe need for secondary aortic interventions in patients with initially medically managed, uncomplicated descending aortic dissections is substantial. The full spectrum of aortic treatment options (endovascular, hybrid, conventional open surgical) is required in these patients.     

Natural history of the proximal aorta in patients with descending thoracic aortic disease

Objective

This study investigated the growth and behavior of the ascending aorta in patients with descending thoracic aortic disease.

Factors associated with elimination of type II endoleak during the first year after endovascular aneurysm repair

ObjectiveThe natural history of endoleak type II (ET II) after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) is still debatable. The aim of this study was to examine the presence of preoperative and postoperative factors associated with persistence of ET II during the initial 12-month follow-up period.MethodsA two-center retrospective study including patients subjected to EVAR from 2006 to 2017 was undertaken. Patients with ET II at 1-month computed tomography angiography (CTA) were categorized into two groups, resolution (group 1) vs persistence (group 2) of ET II at 12-month CTA. Preoperative demographics, comorbidities, aneurysm anatomic details, and pelvic artery index were assessed. Intraoperative details were also recorded.ResultsOf 825 patients, 140 (17%) patients (mean age, 71.7 ± 8.5 years; 94% male) presented with ET II at 1-month CTA. Group 1 included 58 patients (41%) and group 2, 82 patients (59%). The anatomic characteristics of the inferior mesenteric artery and lumbar arteries and the pelvic artery indices were not associated with ET II persistence. All patients in group 1 had presence of intraluminal thrombus (ILT) on preoperative CTA (group 1, 100%; group 2, 67%; P = .001), and the circular pattern of ILT was more common in group 1 (group 1, 44%; group 2, 24%; P = .01). At 12-month CTA, the mean sac regression was higher in group 1 (group 1, −3 ± 4 mm; group 2, 0.55 ± 3 mm; P = .000). After multivariate analysis, persistence of ET II was directly associated only with intraoperative internal iliac occlusion (odds ratio [OR], 0.232; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.06-0.86; P = .03) and inversely with statin therapy (OR, 2.6; 95% CI, 1.01- 6.8; P = .047) and sac regression (OR, 1.24; 95% CI, 1.11-1.39; P = .001).ConclusionsInduced occlusion of the internal iliac artery during EVAR was the only factor associated with persistence of ET II during the first year after EVAR. The presence and pattern of ILT may play a role in ET II persistence, whereas the number of patent infrarenal aortic branches and their diameter as well as the pelvic artery indices were not associated with ET II. The use of statins may have a positive effect on ET II resolution during the first postoperative year. Sac diameter is more likely to regress in patients with ET II resolution.     

Risk of developing an abdominal aortic aneurysm after ectatic aorta detection from initial screening

ObjectiveCurrent abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) surveillance guidelines lack any follow-up recommendations after initial abdominal aortic screening diameter of less than 3.0 cm. Some reports have demonstrated patients with late AAA formation and late ruptures after initial ultrasound screening detection of patients with an aortic diameter of 2.5 to 2.9 cm (ectatic aorta). The purpose of this study was to determine ectatic aorta prevalence, AAA development, rupture risk, and risk factor profile in patients with detected ectatic aortas in a AAA screening program.MethodsA retrospective chart review of all patients screened for AAA from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2016, within a regional health care system was conducted. Screening criteria were men 65 to 75 years of age that smoked a minimum of 100 cigarettes in their lifetime. An ectatic aorta was defined as a maximum aortic diameter from 2.5 to 2.9 cm. An AAA was defined as an aortic diameter of 3 cm or greater. Patients screened with ectatic aortas who had subsequent follow-up imaging of the aorta with a minimum of 1-year follow-up were analyzed for associated clinical and cardiovascular risk factors. All data were collected through December 3,/2018. A logistic regression of statistically significant variables from univariate and χ² analyses were performed to identify risks associated with the development of AAA from an initially diagnosed ectatic aorta. A Cox proportional hazard model was used to assess survival data. A P value of less than .05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsFrom a screening pool of 19,649 patients, 3205 (16.3%) with a mean age of 72.1 ± 5.3 years were identified to have an ectatic aorta from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2016. The average screening ectatic aortic diameter was 2.6 ± 0.1 cm. There were 672 patients (21.0%) with a mean age of 73.0 ± 5.7 years who received subsequent imaging for other clinical indications and 193 of these patients (28.7%) with ectatic aortas developed an AAA from the last follow-up scan (4.2 ± 2.5 years). The average observation length of all patients was 6.4 ± 2.9 years. No ruptures were reported, but 27.8% of deaths were of unknown cause. One patient had aortic growth to 5.5 cm or greater (0.15%). Larger initial screening diameter (P < .01), presence of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (P < .01), and active smoking (P = .01) were associated with AAA development.ConclusionsPatients with diagnosed ectatic aortas from screening who are active smokers or have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease are likely to develop an AAA.     

The Effect of Isolated Phlebectomy on Reflux and Diameter of the Great Saphenous Vein: A Prospective Study

ObjectivesTo evaluate the effect of phlebectomy on venous reflux and diameter of the great saphenous vein (GSV).DesignProspective cohort study.MethodPatients presenting with reflux in the GSV resulting in varicose veins were included in this series. Patients were treated by phlebectomy for dilated and incompetent tributaries of the GSV with conservation of the incompetent GSV. We measured reflux duration (RD), peak reflux velocity (PRV) and the diameter of the GSV using duplex ultrasound imaging at inclusion and 1 month after surgery.PatientsWe included 55 limbs in 54 patients (30 women and 24 men) aged from 37 to 83 (mean age 63) years.ResultsFollowing treatment we observed a significant reduction of the mean RD (0.81s vs. 1.5 s p < 0.01, t-test), mean PRV (120 mm s^?1 vs. 249 mm s^?1 p < 0.01, t-test) and mean diameter of the GSV (SFJ = 5.6 mm vs. 6.7 mm, p < 0.01, sub-terminal valve 4.8 mm vs. 4.4 mm p < 0.05, mid-thigh 5.0 mm vs. 4.2 mm, p < 0.01, knee 4.0 mm vs. 5.3 mm p < 0.01, mid-calf 2.7 mm vs. 4.0 mm, p < 0.01, t-test).ConclusionsWe noted reduced reflux in the GSV after phlebectomy with a significant reduction in RD and PRV. Phlebectomy also led to a significant reduction in GSV diameter. These data suggest that the haemodynamics and the diameter of the SV can be improved by using a treatment focussing on the saphenous tributaries.     

Contrast extravasation on computed tomography angiography in patients with hematochezia or melena: Predictive factors and associated outcomes

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to identify variables associated with extravasation on computed tomography angiography (CTA) in patients with hematochezia/melena and compare the outcome of patients with extravasation on CTA to those without extravasation.Material and methodsNinety-four patients (51 men, 43 women; mean age, 69 ± 16 [SD] years) who underwent CTA within 30 days of hematochezia/melena were included. Variables associated with extravasation on CTA were searched using univariable and multivariable analyses. Outcomes of patients with visible extravasation on CTA were compared with those without visible extravasation.ResultsOne hundred and one CTA examinations were included. Extravasation was observed on 26/101 CTA examinations (26%). At multivariable analysis the need for vasopressor drugs (odds ratio [OR], 7.6; P = 0.040), high transfusion requirements (> 2 blood units) (OR, 7.1; P = 0.014), CTA performed on the day of a hemorrhagic event (OR, 46.2; P = 0.005) and repeat CTA (OR, 27.8; P = 0.011) were independently associated with extravasation on CTA. Extravasation on CTA was followed by a therapeutic procedure in 25/26 CTAs (96%; 26 patients) compared to 13/75 CTAs (17%; 68 patients) on which no extravasation was present (P < 0.001). No patients (0/26; 0%) with contrast extravasation on CTA died while 8 patients (8/61; 13%) without contrast extravasation died, although the difference was not significant (P = 0.099).ConclusionExtravasation on CTA in the setting of hematochezia or melena is especially seen in clinically unstable patients who receive more than two blood units. Presence of active extravasation on CTA leads to more frequent application of a therapeutic procedure; however, this does not significantly affect patient outcome.