Comparison of different delivery modalities of epidural analgesia and intravenous analgesia in labour: a systematic review and network meta-analysis

Canadian Journal of Anesthesia/Journal canadien d'anesthésie - In labour, neuraxial analgesia is the standard in the provision of pain relief. However, the optimal mode of delivering...     

Evaluation of lead-based echodensities on transesophageal echocardiogram in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices

Introduction

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is recommended to rule out endocarditis in patients with cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED). A lead-based echodensity (LBE), however, is often found on TEE in patients with a CIED and may not represent an infection. We sought to evaluate the predictors, characteristics, and clinical significance of LBEs seen on TEE in patients with a CIED.

Methods

Patients with a CIED were retrospectively identified from a database using International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9/ICD-10 codes and were cross-matched with Current Procedural Terminology codes for a TEE. Clinical and follow-up data were collected. A blinded echo board-certified cardiologist reviewed all TEEs.

Results

Out of the 231 patients in the cohort, 191 had TEE performed for a noninfection-related indication while 40 TEEs were part of an endocarditis workup. A total of 50 LBEs were identified, and a majority were in the noninfection cohort. Systemic anticoagulant use in the noninfection cohort was associated with a decreased odds of having LBE on TEE (odds ratio [OR] of 0.23 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.06–0.60, p = .003]). Lead dwell time in the noninfection cohort was associated with an increased odds of having LBE on TEE (OR 1.21 (95% CI: 1.04–1.39, p = .009]).

Conclusion

In our cohort of patients who had TEE for noninfection indications we found that systemic anticoagulant use is associated with fewer LBEs on TEEs, suggesting possible thrombin fibrin composition of LBE.     

Pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia in a healthy young adult male

This case report describes the occurrence of a rapidly enlarging pseudoangiomatous stromal hyperplasia (PASH) tumor in a 20-year-old male patient. The diagnosis was made via tomosynthesis and ultrasound-guided biopsy with pathological correlation consistent with PASH. The patient''s case was discussed, and he was recommended to undergo surgical resection of the mass to alleviate symptoms due to its large size. Surgical pathology confirmed the original diagnosis and the patient had an uncomplicated postoperative course. Here, we exhibit our imaging findings; review classic presentations of PASH on mammography, ultrasound, and MRI; and discuss histological characteristics of this benign entity.