Evaluation of Technical Performance of Ultrasound-Guided Procedures through Hand Motion Analysis: An Exploration of Motion Metrics

PurposeTo evaluate the ability of hand motion analysis using conventional and new motion metrics to differentiate between operators of varying levels of experience for central venous access (CVA) and liver biopsy (LB).Materials and MethodsIn the CVA task, 7 interventional radiologists (experts), 10 senior trainees, and 5 junior trainees performed ultrasound-guided CVA on a standardized manikin; 5 trainees were retested after 1 year. In the LB task, 4 radiologists (experts) and 7 trainees biopsied a lesion on a manikin. Conventional motion metrics (path length and task time), a refined metric (translational movements), and new metrics (rotational sum and rotational movements) were calculated.ResultsIn the CVA task, experts outperformed trainees on all metrics (P < .02). Senior trainees required fewer rotational movements (P = .02), translational movements (P = .045), and time (P = .001) than junior trainees. Similarly, on 1-year follow-up, trainees had fewer translational (P = .02) and rotational (P = .003) movements with less task time (P = .003). The path length and rotational sum were not different between junior and senior trainees or for trainees on follow-up. Rotational and translational movements had greater area under the curve values (0.91 and 0.86, respectively) than the rotational sum (0.73) and path length (0.61). In the LB task, experts performed the task with a shorter path length (P = .04), fewer translational (P = .04) and rotational (P = .02) movements, and less time (P < .001) relative to the trainees.ConclusionsHand motion analysis using translational and rotational movements was better at differentiating levels of experience and improvement with training than the conventional metric of path length.     

Transradial versus Transfemoral Access for Patients with Liver Cancer Undergoing Hepatic Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy: Patient Experience and Procedural Complications

PurposeTo determine whether transradial access (TRA) is a more favorable and safe method for hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC) than transfemoral access (TFA).Materials and MethodsRetrospective and prospective cohorts of patients with liver cancer were included. Sixty-seven patients in the retrospective cohort were divided into 2 groups: (a) TRA-HAIC (n = 24) and (b) TFA-HAIC (n = 43). Another 33 patients were prospectively enrolled to receive both TRA and TFA for HAIC in a crossover design. Prolonged arterial access was required for up to 48 hours. The primary endpoint was quality of life (QOL) using the visual analog scale. The secondary endpoints mainly included procedural success, adverse events, and operation time.ResultsPatient QOL measures revealed significantly lower scores of indices in the TRA-HAIC group than in the TFA-HAIC group in the retrospective cohort (all P < .001). The significant improvement of the QOL indices by TRA-HAIC, such as overall discomfort (P = .019) and pain at the access site (P = .018), was validated in the prospective cohort. The satisfaction scores were significantly higher in the TRA-HAIC group than in the TFA-HAIC group, and patients preferred TRA-HAIC (P < .001). Radial artery occlusion (RAO) as an access-related adverse event occurred more frequently in both the retrospective and prospective cohorts (38% and 33%, P < .001 and P = .001, respectively). Notably, the multivariate analysis of RAO-associated factors showed that enoxaparin use was significantly correlated with a reduced risk of postprocedural RAO (P = .036).ConclusionsTRA was superior to TFA in patient experience. However, because of the high incidence of access-related adverse events, especially for RAO with a total incidence of 35%, strategies should be optimized for patients to benefit from TRA in future procedures.     

Comparison of Feeding-Artery-Only versus Nidus-Plus-Feeding-Artery Embolization of Pulmonary Arteriovenous Malformations

PurposeTo compare coil embolotherapy outcomes of feeding-artery-only versus nidus-plus-feeding-artery technique for treating pulmonary arteriovenous malformations (PAVMs).Materials and MethodsA total of 219 treatment-naïve PAVMs embolized in 90 patients at a single center from 2008 to 2018 met inclusion criteria for retrospective evaluation. Of the patients, 87% had a diagnosis of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT). Feeding artery (FA) diameters ≥2 mm were treated. Coil embolization techniques were classified on the basis of embolic deployment zone: (i) distal feeding artery (DFA) technique (coil-to-nidus distance ≤ 1 cm) or (ii) nidus plus feeding artery (NiFA) technique. Successful embolization predictors were assessed using a multivariate linear regression model with input from patient- and PAVM-specific variables.ResultsTreatment success was achieved in 192 of 219 PAVMs (87.7%) over a mean follow-up period of 19 months. Statistically significant predictors of success in the linear regression model included simple angioarchitecture, NiFA embolization technique, and shorter follow-up duration. Stratified by technique, success rates were 99 of 105 (94.3%) and 93 of 114 (81.6%) PAVMs for NiFA and DFA, respectively (P = .007). On average, NiFA-embolized PAVMs had a larger FA diameter (3.6 mm vs 2.7 mm, P < .001) and comprised more complex PAVMs (48% vs 22%, P < .001) than DFA. Treatment success was not significantly associated with sac size or FA diameter.ConclusionsCoil embolization of both the nidus and FA was associated with a higher persistent occlusion rate than FA embolization alone.     

Hand Sensibility after Transradial Arterial Access: An Observational Study in Patients with and without Radial Artery Occlusion

PurposeTo evaluate hand sensibility after transradial access (TRA) in patients with and without radial artery occlusion (RAO).Materials and MethodsIn this study, 71 patients with and without RAO after TRA for a coronary intervention were studied (79% male, mean age 65 y ± 9). Sensibility testing of both hands was performed with the Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments test. The primary endpoint was abnormal sensibility, defined as diminished sensibility in at least 1 radial nerve–supplied dermatome. The contralateral hand served as control. The influence of TRA, RAO, and clinical characteristics on hand sensibility was evaluated.ResultsIn patients with RAO, more abnormal sensibility was observed on the RAO side compared with the control hand (72% vs 17%, P < .01). In patients without RAO, more abnormal sensibility was observed in the TRA hand compared with the control hand (43% vs 10%, P < .01). When analyzing all hands separately, TRA, RAO, and diabetes were independent predictors for abnormal hand sensibility in a multivariate model (odds ratio 3.8, 95% confidence interval 1.4–9.8, P < .01; odds ratio 3.0, 95% confidence interval 1.1–8.5, P = .03; odds ratio 3.5, 95% confidence interval 1.4–8.6, P < .01).ConclusionsTRA and RAO are associated with diminished hand sensibility.     

The Use of Vascular Closure Devices for Brachial Artery Access: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

PurposeTo estimate the rates of technical success and adverse events of vascular closure devices (VCDs) in the brachial artery and compare the rates of adverse events with manual compression.Materials and MethodsMEDLINE and Embase were searched for observational studies examining VCDs in the brachial artery. Meta-analyses were performed using random effects for the following outcomes: (a) technical success, (b) hematoma at the access site, (c) pseudoaneurysm, (d) local neurological adverse events, and (e) total number of adverse events. A pairwise meta-analysis compared VCD with manual compression for the outcomes of hematoma and the total number of adverse events.ResultsOf 1,761 eligible records, 16 studies including 510 access sites were included. Primary procedures performed were peripheral arterial disease interventions, percutaneous coronary intervention, and endovascular thrombectomy for ischemic stroke. The technical success rate was 93% (95% CI, 87%–96%; I² = 47%). Data on the following adverse events were obtained via meta-analysis: (a) hematoma, 9% (5%–15%; I² = 54%); (b) stenosis or occlusion at access site, 3% (1%–14%; I² = 51%); (c) infection, 0% (0%–5%; I² = 0%); (d) pseudoaneurysm, 4% (1%–13%; I² = 61%); (e) local neurological adverse events, 5% (2%–13%; I² = 54%); and (f) total number of adverse events, 15% (10%–22%; I² = 51%). Angio-Seal success rate was 96% (93%–98%; I² = 0%), whereas the ExoSeal success rate was 93% (69%–99%; I² = 61%). When comparing VCD and manual compression, there was no difference in hematoma formation (relative risk, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.35–1.63; I² = 0%; P = .47) or the total number of adverse events (relative risk, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.35–1.58; I² = 76%; P = .45).ConclusionsDespite being off-label, studies suggest that VCDs in the brachial artery have a high technical success rate. There was no significant difference in adverse events between VCDs and manual compression in the brachial artery.     

Treatment of Arm Swelling in Hemodialysis Patients with Ipsilateral Arteriovenous Access and Central Vein Stenosis: Conversion to the Hemodialysis Reliable Outflow Graft versus Stent Deployment

PurposeTo compare outcomes after conversion of arteriovenous (AV) access to Hemodialysis Reliable Outflow (HeRO) graft vs stent deployment in patients with arm swelling owing to ipsilateral central vein stenosis.Materials and MethodsThis single-center retrospective study comprised 48 patients (19 men, mean age 58 y) with arm swelling ipsilateral to AV access and central vein stenosis over a 13-year period who had clinical follow-up and without prior central stents. Twenty-one patients underwent placement of a HeRO graft with anastomosis of the HeRO graft to the existing graft or fistula, and 27 patients underwent central venous stent deployment. Symptomatic improvement in arm swelling and access patency rates after intervention were ascertained from medical records.ResultsImprovement in swelling within 1 month after HeRO conversion and stent deployment was found in 95% and 89%, respectively (P = .62). Swelling eventually recurred in 16 patients (59%) treated with stents compared with 1 patient (5%) who underwent HeRO conversion (P < .001). Primary access patency was statistically significantly longer after HeRO conversions than stent deployments, with 6- and 12-month primary patency rates of 89% and 72% vs 47% and 11% (P < .001). HeRO conversions also resulted in longer 6- and 12-month secondary access patency rates (95% and 95% vs 79% and 58%, P = .006). Mean number of interventions per 1,000 access days to maintain secondary patency was 2.7 for the HeRO group vs 6.3 for the stent group.ConclusionsAlthough stent deployment and HeRO graft conversion are effective for alleviating arm swelling in the short term in patients receiving hemodialysis with clinically significant arm swelling and functioning AV access, the HeRO graft has more durable results.     

Diagnosis and Treatment of Nonmaturing Fistulae for Hemodialysis Access via Transradial Approach: A Case-Control Study

PurposeTo compare outcomes of transradial access for endovascular treatment of nonmaturing hemodialysis fistulae compared to brachial arteriography followed by unidirectional or bidirectional fistula access for intervention.Materials and MethodsIn this institutional review board-approved, retrospective, case-control study, 56 consecutive patients with nonmaturing arteriovenous fistulae underwent percutaneous intervention between 2015 and 2018. The transradial group (n = 28) underwent radial artery access for diagnostic fistulography and intervention. The control group (n = 28) underwent retrograde brachial artery access for fistulography followed by unidirectional/bidirectional fistula access for intervention. Both groups had similar demographics, fistula characteristics, and stenosis locations.ResultsFewer punctures were required in the transradial group compared to controls (1.2 vs 2.4, P < .0001), and procedure time was shorter (64.9 vs 91.3 minutes, P = .0016). Anatomic, technical, and clinical success rates trended higher in the transradial group compared to controls (93% vs 86%, 96% vs 89%, and 82% vs 64%, respectively). Nonmaturation resulting in fistula abandonment was lower in the transradial group (3.7% vs 25%, P = .025). Primary unassisted patency at 3, 6, and 12 months was 77.1% ± 8.2%, 73.1% ± 8.7%, and 53.3% ± 10.6% in the transradial group, respectively, and 63.0% ± 9.3%, 55.6% ± 9.6%, and 48.1% ± 9.6% in the control group, respectively (P = .76). Primary assisted patency at 12 months was 92.3% ± 5.3% in the transradial group compared to 61.8% ± 9.6% at 12 months in the control group (P = .021). No major complications occurred. Minor complications were lower in the transradial group than in the control group (14% vs 39%, P = .068).ConclusionsTreatment of nonmaturing fistulae via a transradial approach was safe, improved midterm patency, and was associated with lower rates of fistula abandonment.     

Development and Preliminary Validation of the Patient-Reported Outcome Measure for Vascular Malformation Questionnaire: A Prospective Cohort Study

PurposeTo develop and validate the Patient-Reported Outcome Measure for Vascular Malformation (PROVAM) questionnaire to assess the health-related quality of life in patients with vascular malformations.Materials and MethodsWe developed and validated PROVAM using a mixed methods design during a prospective clinical trial at a vascular anomalies clinic. From July 2019 to February 2020, 108 consecutive patients completed 130 questionnaires. The 30-item instrument assessed the domains of pain, emotional/social well-being, functional impact, and treatment satisfaction. Two additional items assessed ease of understanding and relevance. The primary outcomes of instrument reliability and validity were evaluated across several indices. The secondary outcome of responsiveness evaluated total score changes for patients who completed questionnaires both before and after treatment.ResultsInstrument reliability, as measured by Cronbach alpha, was ≥0.79 for pain, emotional/social well-being, and functional impact domains. Primary domain structure was confirmed by factor analysis (P <. 001) and convergent construct validity for all but 1 Likert scale item. In the subgroup analysis of 13 participants who completed PROVAM before and after treatment, instrument responsiveness, as measured by the total score, showed a significant decrease (median, ?10 points; interquartile range [IQR], ?3 to ?16; P = .04). Participants found the questions easy to understand (median, 5 points; IQR, 4–5 on a 5-point scale) and relevant (median score, 4; IQR, 3–5).ConclusionsPreliminary data support the reliability and validity of PROVAM in measuring the health-related quality of life in patients with vascular malformations.     

Woodchuck Hepatic Anatomy and Vascular Alterations Due to Hepatocellular Carcinoma with Angiographic Atlas of the Abdomen and Pelvis

PurposeTo characterize the hepatic and abdominal angiographic anatomy of woodchucks and vascular changes associated with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).Materials and MethodsTwenty-nine woodchucks (23 with viral-associated HCC, 6 without) underwent multiphasic computed tomography (CT). Fourteen woodchucks (8 with HCC) also underwent diagnostic angiography. Hepatic arterial diameters were measured on the CT scans. Woodchucks were divided into 3 groups: non–tumor-bearing, largest tumor supplied by the right hepatic artery (RHA), and largest tumor supplied by the left hepatic artery (LHA). Statistical analysis with a repeated measures model was performed to determine the effects of tumor location (right, left), vessel measured (RHA, LHA), and interaction between the 2 on vessel diameter. Lobar arteries supplying HCC were compared with those that did not.ResultsCT anatomy and normal and variant vascular anatomy were defined. In woodchucks with HCC, LHA and RHA supplying tumors had mean diameters of 2.0 mm ± 0.3 and 1.6 mm ± 0.3 versus 1.5 mm ± 0.3 and 1.1 mm ± 0.2 for non–tumor-supplying arteries (P = .0002 and P < .0001), respectively. Lobar arteries supplying tumors were similarly ectatic. The right lateral lobe artery had the most profound increase in the mean diameter when supplying tumors, measuring 1.7 mm ± 0.1 versus 1.0 mm ± 0.1 in the non–tumor-supplying artery (P < .0001). There were no differences in the diameters of the aorta and celiac, common, and proper hepatic arteries between tumor- and non–tumor-bearing woodchucks. An angiographic atlas of the abdominal vessels was generated.ConclusionsHCC tumoral vasculature in woodchucks was ectatic compared with normal vasculature. This phenomenon recapitulates human HCC and may facilitate investigation of transcatheter and drug delivery therapies in an HCC animal model.     

Intra-Arterial Lidocaine Administration for Anesthesia after Uterine Artery Embolization with Trisacryl Gelatin Microspheres for Leiomyoma

PurposeTo evaluate whether administration of lidocaine into the uterine artery for anesthesia immediately after uterine artery embolization (UAE) with trisacryl gelatin microspheres (TAGM) for leiomyoma is safe and effective.Materials and MethodsIn a single-institution retrospective study, 100 patients underwent UAE using TAGM with a pruned tree endpoint between June 2014 and April 2019. The first 50 patients (control group) underwent UAE without lidocaine; in the second 50 patients (study group), lidocaine was administered into the uterine artery immediately after UAE. Baseline characteristics and technical and periprocedural outcomes were compared. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 18 hours after UAE were compared between the groups with repeated measures analysis of variance. Each multivariate-adjusted VAS score < 24 hours was compared with analysis of covariance.ResultsNo significant differences were observed in baseline characteristics or technical and periprocedural outcomes, including the volume of morphine used (P = .415), between the groups. No significant differences were found in crude or multivariate-adjusted VAS scores at each time point < 24 hours. Only the multivariate-adjusted VAS score 3 hours after UAE was 0.7 lower in the study group (mean ± SE, 2.2 ± 0.3 vs 2.9 ± 0.3); however, no significant difference was noted (P = .070). No adverse events associated with lidocaine were detected.ConclusionsIntra-arterial lidocaine administration immediately after UAE with TAGM for leiomyoma was safe, but did not contribute to significant reductions in pain or volume of narcotic agent administered.     

Vascular Pathology and Impact of Stent Eccentricity for Stent Restenosis in Femoropopliteal Endovascular Therapy

PurposeTo explore the clinical features associated with stent eccentricity and reveal the impact of stent eccentricity on the risk of 1-year restenosis after femoropopliteal stent implantation for symptomatic atherosclerotic peripheral artery disease (PAD).Materials and MethodsThe clinical database of a multicenter prospective study was used. It registered 2,018 limbs of 1,766 patients in whom intravascular ultrasound (IVUS)-supported femoropopliteal endovascular therapy (EVT) for symptomatic atherosclerotic PAD was planned from November 2015 to June 2017. The study included 1,233 limbs of 1,088 patients implanted with a bare nitinol stent, drug-eluting stent (DES), or stent graft and administered ≥2 antithrombotic drugs. The stent eccentricity was evaluated using IVUS, calculated as [(maximum diameter) / (minimum diameter) ? 1] at the cross-sectional segment with the lowest lumen area after stent implantation.ResultsChronic total occlusion and bilateral arterial calcification (peripheral artery calcification scoring system Grades 3 and 4) were positively associated with stent eccentricity, whereas renal failure while receiving dialysis, DES use, and stent graft use were negatively associated with stent eccentricity (all P < .05). Stent eccentricity was associated with an increased risk of 1-year restenosis (odds ratio [OR], 1.18; 95% CI, 1.01–1.37; P = .034). However, after adjustment for lesion severity and implanted stent types, the association was no longer significant (OR, 1.07; 95% CI, 0.91–1.24; P = .43).ConclusionsStent eccentricity was not significantly associated with the risk of 1-year restenosis after femoropopliteal EVT.     

Combined Transarterial Embolization and Percutaneous Sclerotherapy as Treatment for Refractory and Nonresectable Aneurysmal Bone Cysts

PurposeTo evaluate the safety and effectiveness of combined transarterial embolization and percutaneous sclerotherapy in the treatment of refractory and nonresectable aneurysmal bone cysts (ABCs) as assessed by imaging and clinical outcomes.Materials and MethodsThis retrospective, single-center study included 16 consecutive patients (9 women and 7 men; median age, 17 years [range, 6–25 years]) who underwent combined transarterial embolization (using ethylene vinyl alcohol) and percutaneous sclerotherapy (using ethanol gel and polidocanol) for refractory and nonresectable ABCs. The median follow-up was 27.3 months (range, 6.7–47.5 months). Grade of mineralization (5-point Likert scale), grade of fluid-fluid levels (FFLs; 4-point Likert scale), and contrast-enhancing lesion volume were evaluated before and after treatment. The quality of life was determined before and after treatment using the Musculoskeletal Tumor Society (MSTS) score and the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) health questionnaire.ResultsA mean of 1.6 ± 0.7 transarterial embolizations and 3.2 ± 1.7 percutaneous sclerotherapies were performed. No adverse events were observed. All patients showed either partial or complete response; no patient showed ABC recurrence. The grade of mineralization (3.7 ± 0.7 after therapy vs 1.4 ± 0.5 at baseline; P < .0001) and grade of FFL (3.5 ± 0.8 after therapy vs 1.9 ± 0.6 at baseline; P < .0001) significantly improved after therapy compared with baseline. The mean contrast-enhancing lesion volume significantly decreased after treatment compared with baseline (45.9 mm³ ± 96.1 vs 156.0 mm³ ± 115.3, respectively; P = .0003). The MSTS scores (28.8 ± 1.8 after treatment vs 14.1 ± 8.6 at baseline; P < .0001) and SF-36 findings revealed a significant improvement in the quality of life after treatment compared with baseline, leaving most patients without relevant constraints.ConclusionsCombined transarterial embolization and percutaneous sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive, safe, and effective treatment option for refractory and nonresectable ABCs. Treatment fostered bone mineralization and significantly improved patients’ quality of life.     

Outcomes of Hemorrhoidal Artery Embolization from a Multidisciplinary Outpatient Interventional Center

PurposeTo evaluate the safety and efficacy of outpatient transarterial embolization for symptomatic refractory internal hemorrhoids.Materials and MethodsRetrospective analysis of 134 patients who underwent hemorrhoidal artery embolization (HAE) for symptomatic internal hemorrhoids between August 2021 and June 2022 (76 men and 58 women) was performed. The mean age was 54.9 years, with a mean Goligher hemorrhoid grade (HG) of 2.1. Branches of the superior rectal artery (SRA) or middle rectal artery supplying the corpus cavernosum recti were embolized with both spherical particles and microcoils. Standard-of-care evaluations were performed at baseline and the 1 month follow-up, which included hemorrhoid-related pain (HRP) (0–10), hemorrhoid symptoms score (HSS) (5–20), quality of life (QoL) (0–4), French bleeding score (FBS) (0–9), and HG (0–4). Clinical success was defined as improvement of symptoms without additional treatment.ResultsEmbolization of at least 1 hemorrhoidal artery was achieved in 133 (99%) of the 134 patients. The mean number of SRA branches embolized per patient was 2.9 ± 1.0. Clinical success was seen in 93% (124 of 134) of patients at the 1-month follow-up, with 10 patients requiring repeat embolization. There were significant improvements in all mean outcomes at 1 month: HSS (11–7.8; P < .01), HRP (4.1–1.3; P < .01), QoL (2.2–0.8; P < .01), FBS (4.4–2.2; P < .01), and HG (2.3–1.2; P < .05). There were no severe adverse events.ConclusionsHAE is a safe and effective outpatient treatment for refractory symptomatic internal hemorrhoids in the short term.     

Prospective Study of Radial Artery Occlusion Following Transradial Arterial Access during IR Procedures

PurposeTo prospectively determine the rate of radial artery occlusion (RAO) in patients undergoing transradial access for intra-arterial interventions.Materials and MethodsSeventy-seven patients undergoing transradial access from August 2019 to March 2021 for 120 intra-arterial procedures (yttrium-90 mapping [n = 39] and radioembolization [n = 38], uterine artery embolization [n = 19], transarterial chemoembolization [n = 10], active bleed embolization [n = 8], angiomyolipoma embolization [n = 4], and other [n = 2]) were enrolled. The average patient age was 59 years ± 13.1 (range, 30–90 years), and 43 (55.8%) of the 77 patients were men. The patients underwent radial artery (RA) palpation, ultrasound evaluation, the Barbeau test, and the reverse Barbeau test prior to and following the intervention. Verapamil, nitroglycerin, and heparin were administered in a total of 114 (95%) of the 120 procedures prior to starting the procedure. The incidence of RAO and radial artery spasm (RAS) was calculated, and univariate logistic regression was performed to analyze the predictors of RAS.ResultsThe preprocedural RA diameter (3.0 mm ± 0.67) was not significantly different from the postprocedural RA diameter (3.0 mm ± 0.65, P = .904). The RAO rate was determined to be 0.8% (1/120), and this artery recanalized within 1 week. Due to the small number of occlusions, statistical analysis of predictors of RAO was not performed. The rate of RAS was 22.7% (27/119). None of the variables tested—including age, sex, RA diameter, initial versus repeat access, operator experience, and artery puncture technique—showed significant prediction for RAS. Patients were seen for follow-up after 111 (92.5%) of the 120 procedures.ConclusionsTransradial access resulted in a <1% rate of RAO.     

Efficacy and Safety of Ultrasound-Guided Supraclavicular Brachial Plexus Block during Angioplasty of Dysfunctional Arteriovenous Access: A Prospective,Randomized Single-Center Clinical Trial

PurposeTo evaluate the efficacy and safety of the ultrasound-guided supraclavicular brachial plexus block (BPB) during angioplasty of dysfunctional arteriovenous access.Materials and MethodsEighty study participants with dysfunctional arteriovenous access were enrolled in this prospective, randomized clinical trial between November 2016 and February 2018. Eighty patients were randomized to either the ultrasound-guided supraclavicular BPB group (mean age ± standard deviation [SD], 65.1 ± 12.4; male:female = 17:23) or the no regional anesthesia group (mean age ± SD, 64.0 ± 11.7; male:female = 25:15). Pain was assessed on the 10-point Visual Analogue Scale. Participant satisfaction was examined. Six-month clinical follow-up was done to evaluate arteriovenous access patency and long-term complications.ResultsThe BPB group showed a lower average pain score than the control group (mean ± SD, 0.9 ± 1.9 vs 6.4 ± 2.5; P < .001). Participant satisfaction (mean ± SD, 2.8 ± 0.5 vs 2.1±0.8; P < .001) was also higher in the BPB group. Six-month patency was 65% (26/40) in the BPB group and 59% (23/39) in the control group, with no significant difference between the 2 groups (P = .59). No major immediate or delayed complications were observed.ConclusionsUltrasound-guided BPB is highly effective in reducing pain during angioplasty of dysfunctional arteriovenous access with an acceptable safety profile.     

Volumetric Analysis of Progressive Remodeling of Isolated Mesenteric Artery Dissection Treated by Conservative Therapy

PurposeTo characterize remodeling of conservatively treated isolated mesenteric artery dissection (IMAD) using 3-dimensional (3D) volumetric analysis.Material and MethodsPatients with Type I/II (classification of Yun) treated by conservative therapy between January 2018 and January 2020 were prospectively included. Semiautomatic morphological analysis of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) included volumetric measurements of the true lumen (TL), false lumen (FL), and overall lumen (OL) and 3D aortomesenteric angles from computed tomography angiography data at admission (T0), 1 month (T1), and 12 months (T12). The SMA morphology of patients with IMAD (n = 15, mean age 53 years ± 7; 87% men) was also compared with that of control individuals (n = 51, mean age 56 years ± 4; 94% men).ResultsA significant reduction in OL volume was observed (P <.001), whereas TL volume remained stable (P =.23). The TL/OL volume ratio significantly increased over time (P =.001) from 53% at T1 to 78% at T12. Aortomesenteric 3D angles at 2, 4, and 6 cm from the ostium showed a progressive decrease toward values observed in the control group (P =.013, P =.002, and P =.027, respectively). At T12, 5 patients (33%) had complete remodeling, and aneurysmal change was observed in 2 patients (<20 mm). Smoking and SMA angle at a distance of 6 cm from the ostium (T0) were the only factors affecting remodeling negatively at T12.ConclusionsOne-year remodeling in IMAD followed an overall decrease in OL volume related to a decrease in FL volume. Smokers and patients with larger SMA angles at baseline showed poorer remodeling. Spontaneous arterial remodeling in IMAD might favor conservative therapy.     

IN.PACT AV Access Randomized Trial: 12-Month Clinical Results Demonstrating the Sustained Treatment Effect of Drug-Coated Balloons

PurposeTo present the 12-month outcomes of the IN.PACT AV Access Study, a prospective, single-blind trial enrolling participants with obstructive de novo or restenotic native upper extremity arteriovenous dialysis fistula lesions treated with a drug-coated balloon (DCB) or percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA).Materials and MethodsAfter successful high-pressure PTA, participants at 29 international sites were randomized 1:1 to treatment with an IN.PACT AV DCB (n = 170) or standard uncoated PTA (n = 160). Outcomes at 12 months include target lesion primary patency (TLPP), defined as freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization or access circuit thrombosis; access circuit primary patency; number of reinterventions; and adverse events involving the access circuit.ResultsAt 12 months, TLPP was 63.8% (90/141) in the DCB group compared with 43.6% (61/140) in the PTA group (P < .001). The total number of reinterventions required to maintain TLPP through 360 days was 93 in the DCB group and 144 in the PTA group, with a 35.4% reduction in reinterventions when DCB was used. Access circuit thrombosis occurred in 2.9% (4/138) of the participants in the DCB group and in 6.2% (8/129) of those in the PTA group (P = .19). Time to TLPP was assessed using a multivariable analysis to identify the factors associated with loss of patency. The treatment device was the independent predictor with the largest effect, with a hazard ratio of 0.42 (95% confidence interval, 0.29–0.60; P < .001).ConclusionsTLPP was statistically significantly higher with DCBs than with standard PTA at 12 months, demonstrating the sustained and superior effectiveness of this device for the treatment of dysfunctional arteriovenous dialysis fistulae.     

Effectiveness and Safety of Prostatic Artery Embolization for the Treatment of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms from Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in Men with Concurrent Localized Prostate Cancer

PurposeTo assess the effectiveness and safety of prostatic artery embolization (PAE) on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) in the setting of localized prostate cancer (PCa).Materials and MethodsThis was a retrospective, single-center, institutional review board-approved study from December 2016 to June 2020 of 21 patients (median age, 72; range, 63–83 years) with moderate LUTS and localized PCa. Clinical effectiveness was evaluated at 6 and 12 weeks using International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) and quality of life (QoL) improvement. Seventeen patients were scheduled to receive definitive radiotherapy (RT) after PAE; 13 patients completed RT. Short-term imaging signs of oncologic progression were evaluated at 6 and 12 weeks defined by at least one of the following on magnetic resonance imaging: increased Prostate Imaging-Reporting and Data System score of index lesion(s) to at least 4, new extracapsular extension, seminal vesicle involvement, or pelvic lymphadenopathy. Nonparametric Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used for analysis.ResultsIPSS improved by a median of 12 (n = 19, P < .0001) and 14 (n = 14, P < .0001) at 6 and 12 weeks, respectively. QoL improved by a median of 2 (n = 19, P < .0001) and 3 (n = 3, P < .0001) at 6 and 12 weeks. Prostate volume decreased by a median of 24% (n = 19, P < .0001) and 36% (n = 12, P = .015) at 6 and 12 weeks. No patients demonstrated disease progression at 6 (n = 16) or 12 (n = 8) weeks by imaging. No patients experienced increased prostate-specific antigen after RT, grade ≥3 adverse events, or greater genitourinary toxicity.ConclusionsPAE is effective and safe for the treatment of men with LUTS from benign prostatic hyperplasia in the setting of concomitant, localized, non-obstructive PCa.     

Mechanical Properties of a 3 Dimensional–Printed Transparent Flexible Resin Used for Vascular Model Simulation Compared with Those of Porcine Arteries

PurposeTo develop a vascular intervention simulation model that replicates the characteristics of a human patient and to compare the mechanical properties of a 3-dimensional (3D)–printed transparent flexible resin with those of porcine arteries using the elastic modulus (E) and kinetic friction coefficient (μ_k).Materials and MethodsResin plates were created from a transparent flexible resin using a 3D printer. Porcine artery plates were prepared by excising the aorta. E values and the adhesive strengths of the resin and arterial surfaces toward a polyethylene plate, were measured with a tensile-compressive mechanical tester. Resin transparency was measured using an ultraviolet-visible light spectrometer. The μ_k value of the resin plate surface after applying silicone spray for 1–5 seconds and that of the artery were measured using a translational friction tester.ResultsE values differed significantly between the arteries and resin plates at each curing time (0.20 MPa ± 0.04 vs 8.53 MPa ± 2.37 for a curing time of 1 minute; P < .05). The resin was stiffer than the arteries, regardless of the curing times. The visible light transmittance and adhesive strength of the resin decreased as the curing time increased. The adhesive strength of the artery was the lowest. The μ_k value of the silicone-coated resin surface created by applying silicone for 2–3 seconds (thickness of the silicone layer, 1.6–2.0 μm) was comparable with that of the artery, indicating that the coating imparted a similar slippage to the resin as to the living artery.ConclusionsA transparent flexible resin is useful for creating a transparent and slippery vascular model for vascular intervention simulation.     

Retrograde Pedal Access via Occluded Arteries in Endovascular Treatment of Critical Limb Ischemia

PurposeTo evaluate the feasibility and technical outcomes of retrograde access via occluded pedal arteries in endovascular treatment of critical limb ischemia (CLI) when the conventional antegrade approach fails.Materials and MethodsOne hundred fifty-one patients with CLI (age 69 y ± 10.5; 116 men) who were not surgical candidates and were treated via retrograde pedal access between January 2016 and January 2018 were evaluated retrospectively. Seventy patients in whom retrograde access was performed through occluded arteries constituted the occluded group, and 81 patients who were treated via retrograde access from patent arteries constituted the nonoccluded group. Pedal access success, lesion crossing success, angiographic success, overall technical success, and procedure-related complications were evaluated and compared between groups.ResultsPedal access success (74 of 78 vs 83 of 87 attempts; P = .873) and lesion crossing success (64 of 78 vs 77 of 87 lesions; P = .340) were comparable between subgroups. Angiographic success (54 of 78 vs 77 of 87 lesions; P = .012) and overall technical success (48 of 70 vs 72 of 81 patients; P = .004) rates were lower in the occluded group. Procedure-related complications were similar between groups (P = .096).ConclusionsRetrograde pedal access from occluded pedal arteries is a feasible option when an antegrade approach fails in endovascular treatment of CLI. Although it has lower technical success, its use enables angiosome-directed therapy and has the potential to improve the outcomes of the procedure.