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Background/Aims Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)-guided hepaticogastrostomy (EUS-HGS) performed at the intrahepatic bile duct segment 3 (B3) is widely used for biliary drainage. Although performing post-puncture procedures is easier in the intrahepatic bile duct segment 2 (B2) when using a conventional oblique-viewing (OV) EUS scope, this method may cause transesophageal puncture and severe adverse events. We evaluated the safety and efficacy of B2 puncture using a novel OV-EUS scope. Methods In this single-center retrospective study, we prospectively enrolled and collected data from 45 patients who consecutively underwent EUS-HGS procedures with a novel OV-EUS scope between September 2021 and December 2022 at our cancer center. Results The technical success rates of B2-EUS-HGS and EUS-HGS were 93.3% (42/45) and 97.8% (44/45), respectively. The early adverse event rate was 8.9% (4/45) with no cases of scope changes or transesophageal punctures. The median procedure time was 13 minutes (range, 5–30). Conclusions B2-EUS-HGS can be performed safely with the novel EG-740UT (Fujifilm) OV-scope without transesophageal puncture and with a high success rate. B2-EUS-HGS using this novel OV scope may be the preferred strategy for EUS-HGS.

Abstract Background Skin modification through tattoos is as old as humanity itself. However, this trend is on the rise, and with the use of different types of pigments and application practices, both cutaneous and systemic complications can arise. Adverse reactions can be grouped into five classes: inflammatory, infectious, neoplastic, aesthetic, and miscellaneous. On histopathology, inflammatory reactions can exhibit a lichenoid pattern or present as spongiotic dermatitis, granulomatous reactions, pseudolymphoma, pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia, or scleroderma/morphea-like changes. This article reviews tattoo complications, including their clinical and histopathological characteristics. Methods An open search was conducted on PubMed using the terms “tattoo”, “complications”, and “skin”. No limits were set for period, language, or publication type of the articles. Results Reactions to tattoos are reported in up to 67% of people who get tattooed, with papulonodular and granulomatous reactions being the most common. Some neoplastic complications have been described, but their causality is still debated. Any pigment can cause adverse reactions, although red ink is more frequently associated with them. Patients with pre-existing dermatoses may experience exacerbation or complications of their diseases when getting tattoos; therefore, this procedure is not recommended for this patient group. Conclusions Dermatological consultation is recommended before getting a tattoo, as well as a histopathological examination in case of complications. In patients who develop cutaneous inflammatory reactions following tattooing, additional studies are recommended to investigate systemic diseases such as sarcoidosis, pyoderma gangrenosum, atopic dermatitis, and neoplasms. It is important for physicians to be trained in providing appropriate care in case of complications.

Rationale and Objectives: To evaluate the targeting accuracy of a novel robot-assisted guidance technique relying on one pair of 2D C-arm images. Material and Methods: In total, 160 punctures were carried out semi-automatically by using a novel robotic device. The needle's paths were planned based on one pair of 2D fluoroscopic images from different angles. Conically shaped aluminum tips inside a gelatin-filled plexiglass phantom served as targets. The accuracy of the needle placement was assessed by taking control CTs and measuring the Euclidean distance (ED) and normal distance (ND) between the needle and the target point. In addition, the procedural time per needle placement was evaluated. Results: The accomplished mean NDs at the target for the 45°, 60°, 75° and 90° angles were 1.86 mm (SD ± 0.19), 2.68 mm (SD ± 0.18), 2.19 mm (SD ± 0.18) and 1.86 mm (SD ± 0.18), respectively. The corresponding mean EDs were 2.32 mm (SD ± 0.16), 2.68 mm (SD ± 0.18), 2.65 mm (SD ± 0.16) and 2.44 mm (SD ± 0.15). The mean duration of the total procedure, including image acquisition, trajectory planning and placement of four needles sequentially, was 12.7 min. Conclusions: Robotic guidance based on two 2D fluoroscopy images allows for the precise placement of needle-like instruments at the first attempt without the need for using an invasive dynamic reference frame. This novel approach seems to be a valuable tool for the precise targeting of various anatomical structures that can be identified in fluoroscopic images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the performance of an optically tracked robot for computed-tomography (CT)-guided needle placements in a phantom study. Methods: In total, 240 needle punctures were carried out with the help of an optically tracked robotic device (Micromate) based on CT image datasets at three different slice thicknesses (1, 3, and 5 mm). Conically shaped targets inside a gelatin-filled plexiglass phantom were punctured. The target positioning error between the planned and actual needle trajectory was assessed by measuring the lateral positioning error (ND) between the target and the puncture needle and the Euclidean distance (ED) between the needle tip and target in control CTs. Results: The mean ND and ED for the thinnest CT slice thickness were 1.34 mm (SD ± 0.82) and 2.1 mm (SD ± 0.75), respectively. There was no significant impact of target depth on targeting accuracy for ND (p = 0.094) or ED (p = 0.187). The mean duration for the planning of one trajectory and for needle positioning were 42 s (SD ± 4) and 64 s (SD ± 7), respectively. Conclusions: In this ex vivo study, the robotic targeting device yielded satisfactory accuracy results at CT slice thicknesses of 1 and 3 mm. This technology may be particularly useful in interventions where the accurate placement of needle-like instruments is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the efficacy of Dynamic Needle Guidance (DNG) and Dynamic Needle Tip Positioning (DNTP) in the context of sports-related medical interventions, focusing on their potential to improve the administration of nutritional supplements and medications that support athlete recovery and performance. Thirty-one novice residents performed vascular access procedures using both technologies on a phantom model in a randomized sequence. Our primary endpoint was operation time, with secondary endpoints including puncture time, the number of needle tip adjustments tracked by ultrasound, and success rates of initial punctures and attempts, as well as operation difficulty scores. The findings indicated that DNG significantly reduced the operation time (mean(SD) 24.2 (6.4) s vs. 49.4 (15.8) s; p=0.000) and puncture time (9.6 (2.3) s vs. 31.1 (9.8) s; p=0.000), with fewer median (IQR[range]) needle tip adjustments (1 (1-1) [1-1] vs. 3 (3-4) [2-6]; p=0.000). These results suggest a higher efficiency and potentially less discomfort for athletes undergoing treatment. No significant differences were noted in the first puncture or first-attempt success rates between the two methods. Participants reported a significantly lower mean(SD) operation difficulty with DNG compared to DNTP (3.3 (1.0) vs. 6.7 (1.2); p=0.000). The use of DNG could significantly enhance the precision and speed of treatments involving vascular access in athletes, suggesting its potential as a beneficial tool in sports medicine to accelerate recovery and return to performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rationale and Objectives: To evaluate the targeting accuracy of a novel robot-assisted guidance technique relying on one pair of 2D C-arm images. Material and Methods: In total, 160 punctures were carried out semi-automatically by using a novel robotic device. The needle’s paths were planned based on one pair of 2D fluoroscopic images from different angles. Conically shaped aluminum tips inside a gelatin-filled plexiglass phantom served as targets. The accuracy of the needle placement was assessed by taking control CTs and measuring the Euclidean distance (ED) and normal distance (ND) between the needle and the target point. In addition, the procedural time per needle placement was evaluated. Results: The accomplished mean NDs at the target for the 45°, 60°, 75° and 90° angles were 1.86 mm (SD ± 0.19), 2.68 mm (SD ± 0.18), 2.19 mm (SD ± 0.18) and 1.86 mm (SD ± 0.18), respectively. The corresponding mean EDs were 2.32 mm (SD ± 0.16), 2.68 mm (SD ± 0.18), 2.65 mm (SD ± 0.16) and 2.44 mm (SD ± 0.15). The mean duration of the total procedure, including image acquisition, trajectory planning and placement of four needles sequentially, was 12.7 min. Conclusions: Robotic guidance based on two 2D fluoroscopy images allows for the precise placement of needle-like instruments at the first attempt without the need for using an invasive dynamic reference frame. This novel approach seems to be a valuable tool for the precise targeting of various anatomical structures that can be identified in fluoroscopic images.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to assess the performance of an optically tracked robot for computed-tomography (CT)-guided needle placements in a phantom study. Methods: In total, 240 needle punctures were carried out with the help of an optically tracked robotic device (Micromate) based on CT image datasets at three different slice thicknesses (1, 3, and 5 mm). Conically shaped targets inside a gelatin-filled plexiglass phantom were punctured. The target positioning error between the planned and actual needle trajectory was assessed by measuring the lateral positioning error (ND) between the target and the puncture needle and the Euclidean distance (ED) between the needle tip and target in control CTs. Results: The mean ND and ED for the thinnest CT slice thickness were 1.34 mm (SD ± 0.82) and 2.1 mm (SD ± 0.75), respectively. There was no significant impact of target depth on targeting accuracy for ND (p = 0.094) or ED (p = 0.187). The mean duration for the planning of one trajectory and for needle positioning were 42 s (SD ± 4) and 64 s (SD ± 7), respectively. Conclusions: In this ex vivo study, the robotic targeting device yielded satisfactory accuracy results at CT slice thicknesses of 1 and 3 mm. This technology may be particularly useful in interventions where the accurate placement of needle-like instruments is required.

The olive fruit fly Bactrocera oleae (Rossi, 1790) poses a significant threat to oliviculture worldwide, despite extensive chemical control measures. The susceptibility of olive (Olea europaea L.) to this pest varies among cultivars, with fruit size being a key factor of interest, as it can be assessed using non-destructive automated technologies. In this study, we investigated the oviposition preferences of the olive fruit fly in six Italian olive cultivars, tracking fertile and sterile punctures in relation to the diametric growth of the drupe. Additionally, we assessed the genetic diversity among cultivars using SSR markers, aiming to uncover a potential correlation between variation in the genetic diversity patterns and infestation levels. The results revealed that the relationship between fruit size and infestation level is non-linear and varies across different cultivars. The co-inertia analysis (COIA) performed on the genetic and infestation datasets revealed possible shared patterns of diversity and relationships between the two datasets. This study emphasizes the complex and diverse nature of the interaction between the olive fruit fly and its host, underscoring the importance of comprehending non-linear relationships to develop accurate genotypic-specific predictions and models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We describe a minimally invasive endovascular approach to treat an arteriovenous fistula of the scalp. We performed a direct puncture of the lesion through the patient’s scalp for liquid embolic agent injection along with external compression of the superficial temporal artery to perform a “manual pressure-cooker technique.” The combination of these minimally invasive techniques resulted in an excellent clinical and radiographic outcome.

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Tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) and voice prosthesis insertion following laryngectomy may fail to form an adequate seal. When spontaneous closure of the fistula tract does not occur after conservative measures, surgical closure is required. The purpose of this study was to summarize the available evidence on surgical methods for TEP site closure. A comprehensive search across PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Cochrane was performed to identify studies describing surgical techniques, outcomes, and complications for TEP closure. We evaluated the rate of unsuccessful TEP closure after surgical management. A meta-analysis with a random-effect method was performed. Thirty-four studies reporting on 144 patients satisfied inclusion criteria. The overall incidence of an unsuccessful TEP surgical closure was 6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1–13%). Subgroup analysis showed an unsuccessful TEP closure rate for silicone button of 8% (95% CI

We describe a minimally invasive endovascular approach to treat an arteriovenous fistula of the scalp. We performed a direct puncture of the lesion through the patient's scalp for liquid embolic agent injection along with external compression of the superficial temporal artery to perform a "manual pressure-cooker technique." The combination of these minimally invasive techniques resulted in an excellent clinical and radiographic outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work provides an overview of injury patterns in Canadian children and youth aged 1 to 17 years. Self-reported data from the 2019 Canadian Health Survey on Children and Youth were used to calculate estimates for the percentage of Canadian children and youth who experienced a head injury or concussion, broken bone or fracture, or serious cut or puncture within the last 12 months, overall and by sex and age group. Head injuries and concussions (4.0%) were the most commonly reported, but the least likely to be seen by a medical professional. Injuries most frequently occurred while engaging in sports, physical activity or playing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate the feasibility, safety, and rate of radial artery occlusion (RAO) after the treatment of intracranial aneurysms using a 6F Neuron MAX (Penumbra, Alameda, CA, USA) long sheath directly into the radial artery. Methods: All consecutive patients treated for unruptured intracranial aneurysms with TRA using a 6F Neuron MAX catheter between September 2019 and May 2021 in a single tertiary center were screened. They were referred to a consultation and an ultrasound-Doppler assessment of the radial artery 3 months after treatment with the attending neuroradiologist. Patients with available assessment of the radial artery patency were included. Results: A total of 17 patients (median age: 58 years, range 35–68 years; sex ratio F/M: 15/2) were treated for intracranial aneurysms using a 6F Neuron MAX directly into the right radial artery and included. Treatment was a technical success for 16/17 (94%) patients and 1 patient (6%) required a conversion to femoral access. The median radial artery diameter at the puncture site was 2.7 mm (range 1.8–2.9mm). No symptomatic RAO was noted during follow-up. Assessment at 3 months revealed 7/17 (41%) asymptomatic RAOs. Conclusion: Even if technically feasible, the use of a 6F Neuron Max long sheath for triaxial catheterization in intracranial interventions, especially flow diversion, may be responsible for a high radial artery occlusion rate (41%). Although being asymptomatic in all cases in our series, this high occlusion rate may be a concern for further interventions. The development of dedicated radial long sheaths for neurointerventions, with external hydrophilic coating, seems necessary. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The olive fruit fly Bactrocera oleae (Rossi, 1790) poses a significant threat to oliviculture worldwide, despite extensive chemical control measures. The susceptibility of olive (Olea europaea L.) to this pest varies among cultivars, with fruit size being a key factor of interest, as it can be assessed using non-destructive automated technologies. In this study, we investigated the oviposition preferences of the olive fruit fly in six Italian olive cultivars, tracking fertile and sterile punctures in relation to the diametric growth of the drupe. Additionally, we assessed the genetic diversity among cultivars using SSR markers, aiming to uncover a potential correlation between variation in the genetic diversity patterns and infestation levels. The results revealed that the relationship between fruit size and infestation level is non-linear and varies across different cultivars. The co-inertia analysis (COIA) performed on the genetic and infestation datasets revealed possible shared patterns of diversity and relationships between the two datasets. This study emphasizes the complex and diverse nature of the interaction between the olive fruit fly and its host, underscoring the importance of comprehending non-linear relationships to develop accurate genotypic-specific predictions and models.

Tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) and voice prosthesis insertion following laryngectomy may fail to form an adequate seal. When spontaneous closure of the fistula tract does not occur after conservative measures, surgical closure is required. The purpose of this study was to summarize the available evidence on surgical methods for TEP site closure. A comprehensive search across PubMed, Web of Science, SCOPUS, and Cochrane was performed to identify studies describing surgical techniques, outcomes, and complications for TEP closure. We evaluated the rate of unsuccessful TEP closure after surgical management. A meta-analysis with a random-effect method was performed. Thirty-four studies reporting on 144 patients satisfied inclusion criteria. The overall incidence of an unsuccessful TEP surgical closure was 6% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1–13%). Subgroup analysis showed an unsuccessful TEP closure rate for silicone button of 8% (95% CI < 1–43%), 7% (95% CI < 1–34%) for dermal graft interposition, < 1% (95% CI < 1–37%) for radial forearm free flap, < 1% (95% CI < 1–52%) for ligation of the fistula, 17% (95% CI < 1–64%) for interposition of a deltopectoral flap, 9% (95% CI < 1–28%) for primary closure, and 2% (95% CI < 1–20%) for interposition of a sternocleidomastoid muscle flap. Critical assessment of the reconstructive modality should take into consideration previous history of surgery or radiotherapy. Nonirradiated fields and small defects may benefit from fistula excision and tracheal and esophageal multilayer closure. In cases of previous radiotherapy, local flaps or free tissue transfer yield high successful TEP closure rates. Depending on the defect size, sternocleidomastoid muscle flap or fasciocutaneous free flaps are optimal alternatives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the high mortality associated with sepsis, effective and targeted treatments remain scarce. The use of conventional antibiotics such as TIENAM (imipenem and cilastatin sodium for injection, TIE) is challenging because of the increasing bacterial resistance, which diminishes their efficacy and leads to adverse effects. Our previous studies demonstrated that ulinastatin (UTI) exerts a therapeutic impact on sepsis by reducing systemic inflammation and modulating immune responses. In this study, we examined the possibility of administering UTI and TIE after inducing sepsis in a mouse model using cecal ligation and puncture (CLP). We assessed the rates of survival, levels of inflammatory cytokines, the extent of tissue damage, populations of immune cells, microbiota in ascites, and important signaling pathways. The combination of UTI and TIE significantly improved survival rates and reduced inflammation and bacterial load in septic mice, indicating potent antimicrobial properties. Notably, the survival rates of UTI+TIE-treated mice increased from 10 % to 75 % within 168 h compared to those of mice that were subjected to CLP. The dual treatment successfully regulated the levels of inflammatory indicators (interleukin [IL]-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α) and immune cell numbers by reducing B cells, natural killer cells, and TNFR2 + T reg cells and increasing CD8 + T cells. Additionally, the combination of UTI and TIE alleviated tissue damage, reduced bacterial load in the peritoneal cavity, and suppressed the NF-κB signaling pathway. Our findings indicate that UTI and TIE combination therapy can significantly enhance sepsis outcomes by reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system. The results offer a promising therapeutic approach for future sepsis treatment., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests: [Jingqian Su reports financial support was provided by National Natural Science Foundation of China. Jingqian Su reports financial support was provided by Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province. Jingqian Su reports financial support was provided by Fujian Provincial Regional Development Project]., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Despite the high mortality rate, sepsis lacks specific and effective treatment options. Conventional antibiotics, such as TIENAM (TIE; imipenem and cilastatin sodium for injection), face challenges owing to the emergence of bacterial resistance, which reduces their effectiveness and causes adverse effects. Addressing resistance and judicious drug use is crucial. Our research revealed that aloin (Alo) significantly boosts survival rates and reduces inflammation and bacterial load in mice with sepsis, demonstrating strong antimicrobial activity. Using a synergistic Alo + TIE regimen in a cecal ligation and puncture (CLP)-induced sepsis model, we observed a remarkable increase in survival rates from 10 % to 75 % within 72 h compared with the CLP group alone. This combination therapy also modulated inflammatory markers interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, mitigated tissue damage, regulated immune cells by lowering NK, activated CD8 + and CD4 + T cells while increasing peritoneal macrophages, and decreased the bacterial load in the peritoneal cavity. We noted a significant shift in the abdominal cavity microbiota composition post-treatment, with a decrease in harmful bacteria, such as Lachnospiraceae&#95;NK4A136&#95;group, Klebsiella, Bacillus, and Escherichia, and an increase in beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Mucispirillum. Our study emphasizes the efficacy of combining Alo with TIE to combat sepsis, and paves the way for further investigations and potential clinical applications aiming to overcome the limitations of TIE and enhance the therapeutic prospects of Alo., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests: Jingqian Su reports financial support was provided by National Natural Science Foundation of China. Jingqian Su reports financial support was provided by Natural Science Foundation of Fujian Province. Jingqian Su reports financial support was provided by Fujian Provincial Regional Development Project., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Background: Primary fit tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) is widely preferred for individuals who have not undergone prior radiation. However, there is no consensus on the relative utility of primary-fit TEP in the setting of salvage laryngectomy., Methods: A retrospective, single-center review was conducted of individuals undergoing laryngectomy with primary fit TEP between 2012 and 2018. Multivariable analysis was conducted to compare short-term and long-term complications, as well as speech and swallowing outcomes, of those who underwent primary versus salvage laryngectomy., Results: In this study, 134 patients underwent total laryngectomy with primary fit TEP. Aside from a higher rate of peristomal dehiscence (13.1% vs. 1.4%) found in the salvage group, there was no difference in incidence of all other complications, including pharyngocutaneous fistula formation. The groups had comparable speech and swallow outcomes., Conclusion: Primary fit TEP is a safe and effective surgical choice for individuals undergoing salvage laryngectomy who desire a voice prosthesis., (© 2024 The Authors. Head & Neck published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Introduction: Our retrospective study aimed at assessing safety of vascular closure devices (VCDs) used in a large single-centre Interventional Radiology (IR) department. Complication and deployment failure rates using collagen-based (Angio-seal) and suture-based (ProGlide) devices for common femoral artery haemostasis were compared., Materials and Methods: Data from VCDs deployed over a 6-year period were retrospectively analysed for patient age, procedure indication, puncture mode (antegrade/retrograde), sheath size, deployment failure and complications (haematoma, pseudoaneurysm formation, limb occlusion). Numerical and statistical analysis was undertaken., Results: Overall, 1321 common femoral artery punctures in 1217 patients were closed using VCDs. Failure rate using ProGlide was significantly higher when compared with Angio-seal ( P =<0.001) in sheath sizes ≤8 Fr. Heparin was not administered in embolisation procedures compared with angioplasty with or without stenting. Therefore, haematoma tended to occur more frequently following angioplasty without stenting ( P = 0.003) and angioplasty with stenting ( P = 0.001), when compared with embolisation. Deployment failure occurred more frequently when heparin was used during the procedure ( P = 0.005)., Conclusion: Although complications relating to sheath size are well established in the literature, there remains a paucity of data assessing the impact of procedure specific factors when comparing VCDs. Our study challenges that size is the sole determinant of VCD success and invites a more holistic view of VCD deployment strategies. This study advocates continued research into the nuances of other potential confounding variables to optimise patient outcomes., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Objective: To explore the effect of electric function training instrument for arteriovenous fistula on vascular index of fistula and puncture success rate in patients with autogenous arteriovenous fistulization (AVF)., Methods: 60 patients received AVF in the Fourth Hospital of Hebei Medical University from June 2020 to June 2021 were selected as the study subjects, and they were divided into the treatment group (TG, n  = 30) and the reference group (RG, n  = 30) according to the random number table method. The patients in the RG received routine pressure training by clench fist and tourniquet after surgery, and the TG used electric function training instrument for arteriovenous fistula on the basis of routine clench fist, then comprehensively evaluating the clinical application value of this study protocol by comparing the vascular index of fistula and puncture success rate of the two groups., Results: The depth of cephalic vein to skin at T2 and T3 in the TG was notably lower than the RG ( P  < 0.05), and the vessel diameter of cephalic vein at T3 in the TG was visibly higher than the RG ( P  < 0.05), with no overt difference in the rate of fistula complication, one-time puncture success rate and the incidence of puncture injury in both groups ( P  > 0.05). The score of functional exercise compliance of fistula in the TG was clearly higher than the RG ( P  < 0.001)., Conclusion: The study results suggest that the use of electric function training instrument for arteriovenous fistula after AVF is more effective, so it has certain clinical application value.

Background: To assess the safety and efficacy of ultrasound-assisted sagittal view for retrograde puncture of the P2 segment of popliteal artery (PA) for treating femoropopliteal lesions., Methods: A retrospective study was conducted on consecutive patients who underwent retrograde puncture of the PA for the recanalization of femoropopliteal lesions. A retrograde access was made to either the P2 or P3 segment of the PA in 23 cases. In 10 cases (8 men; mean age 68 ± 9 years), ultrasound-guided retrograde PA (P2 segment) puncture using the long-axis in-the-plane approach was performed, and in 13 cases (11 men; mean age 69 ± 5 years), angiography-guided retrograde PA (P3 segment) puncture was performed. Clinical data was compared preintraoperatively and postoperatively in the 2 groups., Results: All occluded lesions were successfully recanalized via dual channel intervention. Puncture success were 100% (10/10) in the P2 group compared with 92.3% (12/13) in the P3 group (P > 0.05). The mean puncture time in the P2 group was significantly shorter when compared to the P3 group (4.70 ± 0.95 mins vs 11.33 ± 6.37 mins; P < 0.05). There was no difference in mean hemostasis time between the 2 groups (6.11 ± 2.20 mins vs 8.46 ± 3.76 mins; P > 0.05). There were no in-hospital deaths in all patients. The occurrence of puncture-related complications in the P2 group was 10% compared with 15% in the P3 group (P > 0.05). A low-flow arteriovenous fistula was observed in one case in the P3 group. None of the patients reported any access-related complication at a mean follow-up of 11.3 ± 5.5 months., Conclusions: Ultrasound-assisted sagittal view for retrograde puncture of the P2 segment of PA is at least as safe as angiography-guided retrograde puncture of the P3 segment for femoropopliteal lesions. Furthermore, this technique appears to be more suitable for patients with tandem iliofemoral artery occlusion, as it allows for the creation of a retrograde access., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To investigate the highest opportunity skin puncture point and needle orientation according to facial asymmetry and classification., Methods: Computed tomography of 136 patients was analyzed. Horizontal and vertical angles and distances from the canthal-tragal line were investigated to determine the puncture point and needle's angle., Result: All patients' average points were 7.39 (±2.85) mm anterior to the tragus and 3.44 (±4.18) mm below the canthal-tragal line with an angle of 8.53 (±6.90)° anteriorly and 32.26 (±7.23)° superiorly. Regarding asymmetry, there was a statistical difference in horizontal angle, depth, and canthal-tragal distance between the deviated and non-deviated sides. Especially, vertical distances were 4.44 (±4.66) mm and 2.59 (±4.11) mm in the deviated and non-deviated sides, respectively ( p < 0.001)., Conclusion: In closed-mouth, the puncture point was closer to the tragus and lower than the conventional point. The point in the deviated side should be considered lower than the non-deviated side.

Objective: This study utilizes the latest data from the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI), which now encompasses over 50,000 transcarotid artery revascularization (TCAR) procedures, to offer a sizeable dataset for comparing the effectiveness and safety of TCAR, transfemoral carotid artery stenting (tfCAS), and carotid endarterectomy (CEA). Given this substantial dataset, we are now able to compare outcomes overall and stratified by symptom status across revascularization techniques., Methods: Utilizing VQI data from September 2016 to August 2023, we conducted a risk-adjusted analysis by applying inverse probability of treatment weighting to compare in-hospital outcomes between TCAR vs tfCAS, CEA vs tfCAS, and TCAR vs CEA. Our primary outcome measure was in-hospital stroke/death. Secondary outcomes included myocardial infarction and cranial nerve injury., Results: A total of 50,068 patients underwent TCAR, 25,361 patients underwent tfCAS, and 122,737 patients underwent CEA. TCAR patients were older, more likely to have coronary artery disease, chronic kidney disease, and undergo coronary artery bypass grafting/percutaneous coronary intervention as well as prior contralateral CEA/CAS compared with both CEA and tfCAS. TfCAS had higher odds of stroke/death when compared with TCAR (2.9% vs 1.6%; adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.65-2.06; P < .001) and CEA (2.9% vs 1.3%; aOR, 2.21; 95% CI, 2.01-2.43; P < .001). CEA had slightly lower odds of stroke/death compared with TCAR (1.3% vs 1.6%; aOR, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.76-0.91; P < .001). TfCAS had lower odds of cranial nerve injury compared with TCAR (0.0% vs 0.3%; aOR, 0.00; 95% CI, 0.00-0.00; P < .001) and CEA (0.0% vs 2.3%; aOR, 0.00; 95% CI, 0.0-0.0; P < .001) as well as lower odds of myocardial infarction compared with CEA (0.4% vs 0.6%; aOR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.54-0.84; P < .001). CEA compared with TCAR had higher odds of myocardial infarction (0.6% vs 0.5%; aOR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.13-1.54; P < .001) and cranial nerve injury (2.3% vs 0.3%; aOR, 9.42; 95% CI, 7.78-11.4; P < .001)., Conclusions: Although tfCAS may be beneficial for select patients, the lower stroke/death rates associated with CEA and TCAR are preferred. When deciding between CEA and TCAR, it is important to weigh additional procedural factors and outcomes such as myocardial infarction and cranial nerve injury, particularly when stroke/death rates are similar. Additionally, evaluating subgroups that may benefit from one procedure over another is essential for informed decision-making and enhanced patient care in the treatment of carotid stenosis., (Copyright © 2024 Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: For rare neuro-endovascular cases in which transfemoral access is not feasible and the palmar circulation is insufficient for radial artery access, ulnar artery access may be considered., Materials and Methods: Mechanical thrombectomy via ulnar artery access was performed to preserve the dominant radial artery. The ulnar artery was serial dilated to 7-French with microdilator. Angiography was performed using a diagnostic catheter. The sheath was exchanged for a guide catheter, and a triaxial system was inserted. A mechanical thrombectomy was performed. The systematic literature review included all studies pertaining to techniques for ulnar artery access for neurointervention in the last 20 years (2003-2023) published in the PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases., Results: 67-year-old male developed left MCA syndrome in the setting of an infected abdominal aortic endograft. A transfemoral approach was ruled out due to concern for crossing the infected endograft. Allen test and ultrasound demonstrated that the right radial artery was of adequate size for access, but the ulnar artery was insufficient to support the palmar arch. Mechanical thrombectomy resulted in TICI 3 reperfusion. Systematic review of the literature yielded 2 case series and 1 case report of transulnar neurovascular procedures. Access site complications were rare and included 3 access site hematomas and 1 ulnar artery occlusion., Conclusion: We report our technique of serial dilation of the ulnar artery for neuroendovascular procedures and provide a systematic review of the literature for complication avoidance in ulnar artery access., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest None., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Transfemoral (TF) access is the preferred approach for transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Limited data exist regarding the outcomes of intravascular lithotripsy (IVL)-assisted TF TAVR in patients with peripheral artery disease., Objectives: This study sought to examine contemporary characteristics, trends, and outcomes of IVL TAVR in the United States., Methods: The Vizient Clinical Database was queried for patients who underwent percutaneous TAVR between October 1, 2020, and November 30, 2023. Outcomes with IVL TAVR vs non-IVL TAVR were examined after propensity score matching. The primary outcome was a composite of in-hospital death, stroke, vascular complications, surgical vascular intervention, and major bleeding., Results: Over the study period, 129,655 patients (mean age of 78.4 years, 42.2% women, 87.1% White) underwent percutaneous TAVR at 361 hospitals, 1,242 (0.96%) of whom underwent IVL TAVR. There was an uptrend in IVL TAVR, but the frequency remained low. IVL TAVR patients had a higher median Elixhauser comorbidity score (5 [Q1-Q3: 4-7] vs 4 [Q1-Q3: 3-6]) compared to non-IVL TAVR. TAVR was completed via the TF approach in 1,238 (99.7%) IVL TAVR patients. In a 3:1 propensity score matching analysis, IVL TAVR was associated with a higher rate of the primary composite outcome (21.9% vs 13.7%; P < 0.001) driven by higher rates of vascular complications, surgical vascular intervention, and major bleeding. In-hospital death and stroke were similar in both groups., Conclusions: In the United States, IVL is increasingly adopted to facilitate TF TAVR. IVL TAVR patients exhibited a higher burden of comorbidities and experienced more complications compared to non-IVL TAVR patients. Further studies are needed to identify appropriate anatomical and clinical use criteria for IVL TAVR and to compare its outcomes vs alternative non-TF TAVR., Competing Interests: Funding Support and Author Disclosures Dr Soukas has received institutional research grants from Shockwave Medical. Dr Abbott has received personal fees for consulting from Abbott, Medtronic, and Penumbra Inc; and has received institutional research grants from Boston Scientific, Recor Medical, Med Alliance, and Shockwave Medical. All other authors have reported that they have no relationships relevant to the contents of this paper to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 American College of Cardiology Foundation. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: Vascular complications remain a major concern in transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). The Hostile score has been proposed to stratify risk in TAVR patients with peripheral artery disease., Objectives: The authors aimed to assess the validity of the Hostile score in predicting iliofemoral vascular complications after TAVR., Methods: In a prospective TAVR registry, we validated the Hostile score for the prediction of puncture and non-puncture site vascular complications. This scoring system integrates the extent (number of lesions, lesion length, and minimum lumen diameter) and complexity (tortuosity, calcification, and the presence of obstruction) of iliofemoral atherosclerosis., Results: Of 2,023 patients who underwent transfemoral TAVR with contemporary devices between March 2014 and June 2022, 106 (5.2%) patients experienced puncture site vascular complications and 28 (1.4%) patients experienced non-puncture site vascular complications. The Hostile score was higher in patients with vascular complications than those without complications (1.00 [Q1-Q3: 0-5.00] vs 1.00 [Q1-Q3: 0-4.00]; P < .001). A higher body mass index (OR: 1.23; 95% CI: 1.04-1.50) and the use of Prostar (OR: 6.03; 95% CI: 2.23-16.30) or MANTA (OR: 6.18; 95% CI: 2.67-14.27) compared with ProGlide were independent predictors of puncture site vascular complications, whereas a higher Hostile score (OR: 1.91; 95% CI: 1.55-2.35) and female sex (OR: 2.69; 95% CI: 1.12-6.42) were independent predictors of non-puncture site vascular complications. The area under the receiver-operating characteristic curves for the prediction of puncture site and non-puncture site vascular complications were 0.554 and 0.829, respectively., Conclusions: The Hostile score proved useful in predicting non-puncture site vascular complications after TAVR. (SwissTAVI Registry; NCT01368250)., Competing Interests: Funding Support and Author Disclosures Dr Samim has received funding for an online course from Edwards Lifesciences. Dr Gräni has received funding from the Swiss National Science Foundation, InnoSuisse, Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine University Bern, GAMBIT foundation, Novartis Foundation for Medical-Biological Research, and Swiss Heart Foundation, outside of the submitted work. Dr Gräni has served as Editor-in-Chief of The International Journal of Cardiovascular Imaging. Dr Stortecky has received research grants to the institution from Edwards Lifesciences, Medtronic, Abbott, and Boston Scientific; and personal fees from Boston Scientific, Teleflex, and BTG. Dr Reineke has received travel expenses from Abbott, Edwards Lifesciences, and Medtronic. Dr Windecker has received research and educational grants to the institution from Abbott, Amgen, AstraZeneca, BMS, Bayer, Biotronik, Boston Scientific, Cardinal Health, CardioValve, CSL Behring, Daiichi-Sankyo, Edwards Lifesciences, Guerbet, InfraRedx, Johnson & Johnson, Medicure, Medtronic, Novartis, Polares, OrPha Suisse, Pfizer, Regeneron, Sanofi, Sinomed, Terumo, and V-Wave; and has served as unpaid advisory board member and/or unpaid member of the steering/executive group of trials funded by Abbott, Abiomed, Amgen, AstraZeneca, BMS, Boston Scientific, Biotronik, Cardiovalve, Edwards Lifesciences, Med Alliance, Medtronic, Novartis, Polares, Sinomed, V-Wave; and Xeltis but has not received personal payments by pharmaceutical companies or device manufacturers; served as a member of the steering/executive committee group of several investigator-initiated trials that receive funding by industry without impact on his personal remuneration; served as an unpaid member of the Pfizer Research Award selection committee in Switzerland and of the Women as One Awards Committee; served as a member of the Clinical Study Group of the Deutsches Zentrum für Herz Kreislauf-Forschung and of the Advisory Board of the Australian Victorian Heart Institute; served as the chairperson of the ESC Congress Program Committee; and served as Deputy Editor of JACC: Cardiovascular Interventions. Dr Pilgrim has received research, travel, or educational grants to the institution without personal remuneration from Biotronik, Boston Scientific, Edwards Lifesciences, and ATSens; and speaker fees and consultancy fees to the institution from Biotronik, Boston Scientific, Edwards Lifesciences, Abbott, Medtronic, Biosensors, and Highlife. All other authors have reported that they have no relationships relevant to the contents of this paper to disclose., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: The common femoral artery is the most commonly used vascular access due to its low complication rate and high technical success rate. However, this approach may be less suitable in patients with certain factors such as obesity, the need to treat both lower limbs, and the inability to access the lesion via crossover. In this context, endovascular approaches using percutaneous puncture or upper arm access have emerged. Therefore, we evaluated the feasibility of percutaneous access to the axillary artery in routine endovascular procedures., Methods: This single-center observational study included consecutive patients requiring percutaneous access to the axillary artery for endovascular procedures from January 2020 to December 2023. Demographic and procedural characteristics were collected. The primary endpoint was efficacy (technical success rate) and safety (complications rate) at 30 days. Secondary endpoints were minor complications and risk factors of complications., Results: 85 patients were included. Axillary approach was used to treat peripheral artery disease (PAD) in 77.6% (n=66), complex aortic aneurysm in 17.7% (n=15), and acute type B aortic dissection in 4.7% (n=4) of patients. This approach was used due to bilateral PAD treatment (n=20), obesity (n=18), prior EVAR (n=12), prior common femoral artery stenting (n=9), major iliac tortuosity (n=9), prior kissing stent (n=8), favorable angulation (n=5) and true lumen positioning in type B aortic dissection (n=4). The left axillary approach was used in 97.6% (n=83) of cases. The efficacy was 100%. At 30 days, safety was 85.6% with a major complication rate of 14.2% (n=12), including 10.6% (n=9) surgical conversion for hemostasis, 2.4% (n=2) covered stenting, and 1.2% (n=1) stroke. Body mass index was associated with a higher rate of complications (25.2 ± 6.17 vs. 29.0 ± 6.04, OR: 1.2 [1.05; 1.37] p=0.006)., Conclusion: Axillary arteries are an effective alternative access route for patients with unsuitable iliofemoral arteries. Randomized clinical trials are needed to confirm our findings and to assess the best approach for the upper arm., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: During the development of disease-modifying intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) drugs, the rat model of IDD is frequently used for disease progression assessment. The aim of this study was to describe a magnetic resonance (MRI) scoring system for the assessment of different disc conditions in puncture-induced IDD, allowing standardization and comparison of results obtained by different investigators., Methods: A total of 36 Sprague-Dawley rats were utilized in the present study. The animals were divided into two groups: a sham group and an IDD group caused by puncture. The rats in the IDD group were subsequently divided into six categories based on time frames, with five rats in each category. The sham group was divided into two sub-groups (n = 3) for 28 and 56 days, respectively. T2-weighted images of rats consecutively studied with MRI of the coccygeal discs were classified according to the time course using the corresponding histological data. Additional scoring of the micro-CT was employed to identify the progression of bone destruction of the rat model of IDD., Results: A comparison of the MRI results between the sham group and the IDD group revealed a significant reduction in NP height, area, T2WI value, and DHI in the latter group (P < 0.05). The micro-CT results demonstrated that following acupuncture, there was a notable decline in the BV, Tb.N, and height of the coccygeal vertebra, while the BS/BV and Tb.Sp exhibited a significant increase (P < 0.05). The histological results were analogous to the MRI results, indicating a progressive exacerbation of IDD and a corresponding increase in NP score (P < 0.05). The results of the MRI were found to be consistent with those of the micro-CT and histological analyses (P < 0.05). The results of the study demonstrate a robust correlation between MRI analysis and histological findings. Live animals are employed for MRI analysis to improve experiment comparability. The reliability of the MRI scoring system ensures assessment of disease progression in live animals, while promoting cost savings and animal welfare by avoiding the sacrifice of animals at different times., Conclusions: The described scoring paradigm has quantitatively been found to differentiate IDD disease progression in an in vivo rat model. Hence, we suggest employing it to evaluate the rat IDD model and assess the effects of treatments in this model., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Competing Interests: Dr Aminian is a consultant for Terumo. Dr Sgueglia declares lecture fees for Terumo and Cordis. Dr Tsigkas reports no conflicts.

Background: The 1.5 mm Baby J hydrophilic narrow J-tipped wire is a development of the standard 0.035" 3-mm J-tipped peripheral guidewire, designed to improve efficiency of transradial coronary procedures by safely navigating small caliber radial arteries to the aorta. There is currently a lack of evidence comparing the procedural success and safety of different peripheral guidewires used in transradial cardiac procedures. We compared the efficacy and safety of a narrow J-tipped hydrophilic 0.035" wire (intervention, Radifocus Baby J guidewire; TERUMO Co, Tokyo, Japan) versus a standard fixed-core 0.035" J wire (control)., Methods: Investigator-initiated, blinded, Australian, multicenter randomized trial in patients undergoing clinically indicated coronary angiography or percutaneous coronary intervention. Patients were randomized 1:1 to use either the control guidewire or the intervention guidewire. The primary end point (technical success) was defined as gaining aortic root access with the randomized guidewire., Results: In all, 330 patients were randomized between October 2022 and June 2023 (median age was 69 years, 36% were female, and body mass index was 29 kg/m 2 ). The primary end point was achieved more frequently in the intervention group (96% versus 84%; absolute risk reduction 12% [95% CI, 5.7-18.3]; P <0.001). Women assigned to the control wire experienced a higher failure rate compared with men (31% versus 8% in men; P <0.001). Fluoroscopy time was significantly lower in the Baby J group (median, 344 versus 491 seconds; P =0.024). The main mechanisms of failure using the control wire were radial artery spasm (15/26; 57%) and subclavian tortuosity (5/26; 19.2%). There were no differences in overall procedure times, major adverse cardiovascular events, or vascular complications between guidewires., Conclusions: A narrow 1.5 mm J-tipped hydrophilic guidewire resulted in greater technical success and reduced fluoroscopy time compared with the standard 3-mm J-tipped nonhydrophilic guidewire. The guidewire is safe and demonstrated key incremental benefits for the transradial approach, particularly in women., Registration: URL: https://www.anzctr.org.au/; Unique identifier: ACTRN12622001557729., Competing Interests: None.

Background: Perclose ProGlide (PPG) Suture-Mediated Closure System™ is safe and can reduce time to hemostasis following procedures requiring arterial access., Aims: We aimed to compare PPG to figure of 8 suture in patients who underwent interventional catheter procedures requiring large bore venous access (LBVA) (≥13 French)., Methods: In this physician-initiated, randomized, single-center study [clinicaltrials.gov ID: NCT04632641], single-stick venous access was obtained under ultrasound guidance. Eligible patients were randomized 1:1, and 100 subjects received allocated treatment to either PPG (n = 47) or figure of 8 suture (n = 53). No femoral arterial access was used in any patient. Primary outcomes were time to achieve hemostasis (TTH) and time to ambulation (TTA). Secondary outcomes were time to discharge (TTD) and vascular-related complications and mortality. Wilcoxon rank-sum test was used to compare TTH, TTA, and TTD., Results: TTH (minutes) was significantly lower in PPG versus figure of 8 suture [median, (Q1, Q3)] [7 (2,10) vs. 11 (10,15) respectively, p < 0.001]. TTA (minutes) was significantly lower in PPG compared to figure of 8 suture [322 (246,452) vs. 403 (353, 633) respectively, p = 0.005]. TTD (minutes) was not significantly different between the PPG and figure of 8 suture arms [1257 (1081, 1544) vs. 1338 (1171,1435), p = 0.650]. There was no difference in minor bleeding or access site hematomas between both arms. No other vascular complications or mortality were reported., Conclusion: PPG use had lower TTH and TTA than figure of 8 suture in a population of patients receiving LBVA procedures. This may encourage same-day discharge in these patients., (© 2024 The Author(s). Catheterization and Cardiovascular Interventions published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Introduction: Hemostasis following large-bore femoral vein access remains a challenge. Manual compression has been the standard of care but requires bedside staff, prolonged bed rest, and longer length of stay. The LockeT is an external compression device that attempts to address these issues while achieving venous hemostasis., Objectives: We evaluate postprocedural hemostasis and vascular closure outcomes after using LockeT following cardiac electrophysiologic procedures., Methods: We performed a single-center, observational study of patients who underwent vascular closure for electrophysiology procedures using LockeT. Postprocedural outcomes were subsequently analyzed., Results: We studied 102 patients (N) for whom LockeT was used to close 182 separate vascular access sites (n). Common procedures were atrial fibrillation ablation (56.9%, N = 58) and left atrial appendage occlusion (28.4%, N = 29). Most often, 8-Fr [48.3% (n = 126)], 11-Fr [27.2% (n = 71)], and 8.5-Fr [16.9% (n = 44)] sheaths were used, with an average procedure time of 82.1 ± 29.4 min. Hemostasis was achieved in 97.8% (n = 187) of all LockeT cases. Time to ambulation and discharge were 3.93 ± 1.10 h and 8.1 ± 4.4 h, respectively. No major complications were noted. Postprocedurally, 52% (N = 53) of patients were discharged on the same day. There were no differences in hemostasis (p = .859) or ambulation times (p = .202) between procedure types., Conclusion: The LockeT can effectively close venous access sites with no major complications., (© 2024 The Author(s). Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Epidural fluid collection is commonly seen as a low-density accumulation beneath the dura on postoperative computed tomography scans. It is discussed less in the literature because, in most cases, the fluid amount is small, self-absorbing, and typically does not cause neurological deficits, so intervention is usually unnecessary. However, when a significant amount of fluid accumulates, patients may experience symptoms such as altered consciousness and even coma. In such cases, treatment is necessary to reduce intracranial pressure, preventing further deterioration of consciousness and potentially life-threatening situations. The authors report a case of a large epidural fluid collection following cranioplasty, resulting in progressive deterioration of consciousness in the patient. Computed tomography scans indicated brain herniation. Subsequently, percutaneous puncture and suction treatment were performed, followed by appropriate pressure dressing. The patient gradually recovered from a shallow coma to clear consciousness and was discharged after rehabilitation., Competing Interests: The authors report no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 by Mutaz B. Habal, MD.)

Ovarian puncture has been widely used in assisted reproduction, but there are still gaps about its effects on ovarian morphophysiology, as well as the relationship between inflammation caused by this procedure and the follicular growth and fertility. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ovarian puncture on folliculogenesis and fertility. Mice (n = 24) were divided into two groups: (1) SHAM-both ovaries were exposed and repositioned and (2) Punctured-ovaries were exposed, punctured, and repositioned. After 96 h of surgery, ovaries were collected for morphofunctional analysis. New females were used for the superovulation (n = 10) and fertility assays (n = 10). Increased volumetric density of inflammatory cells-p = 0.0005, p = 0.0013; hemorrhagic foci-p < 0.0001; and inflammatory exudate-p < 0.0001 could be noticed on the punctured group, compared to SHAM. The percentage of primordial follicles was lower on the punctured ovaries (p = 0.00294). Ovarian puncture has also induced an increase in the proliferation of granulosa cells of primary (p = 0.0321) and antral follicles (p = 0.0395), and an increased apoptotic index of antral follicles (p = 0.0100). There was no influence on expression of some genes related to inflammation, collagen deposition and folliculogenesis progression. The reproductive aspects (oocyte retrieval and number of fetuses per female) were not altered (p > 0.05). Taken together, our findings strongly suggest that ovarian puncture results in a local inflammation that affects follicular growth and atresia. However, it does not affect female fertility, which strengthens the safety of this procedure., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Society for Reproductive Investigation.)

Retrograde tibio-pedal access represents a feasible method for endovascular revascularization when antegrade methods fail. The article offers an extensive review of retrograde tibio-pedal access, emphasizing the technique and documented outcomes., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

For the past 20 years, transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) has been the treatment of choice for symptomatic aortic stenosis. The transfemoral (TF) access is considered the gold standard approach for TAVR. However, TF-TAVR cannot be performed in some patients; thus, alternative accesses are required. Our review paper generalises the TAVR accesses currently available, including the transapical, transaortic, trans-subclavian/axillary, transcarotid, transcaval, and suprasternal approaches. Their advantages and disadvantages have been analysed. Since there is no standard recommendation for an alternative approach, access selection depends on the expertise of the local cardiac team, patient characteristics, and access properties. Each TAVR centre is recommended to master a minimum of one non-TF access alternative. Of note, more evidence is required to delve into the clinical outcomes of each approach, at both early and long-term (Figure 1)., (© 2024. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Background: Radial artery access has been used for left heart catheterization (LHC) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for over 30 years. This method has gained popularity among operators due to superficial vessel anatomy, allowing for easy accessibility and compressibility, resulting in effective hemostasis., Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of patients who underwent PCI due to ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), non-ST-elevation acute coronary syndrome (NSTE-ACS), and chest pain (stable angina) from November 2013 to February 2023., Results: We analyzed validated registries and found 7714 PCIs. Of these, 1230 were STEMI patients, 5585 were NSTE-ACS patients, and 899 were stable angina patients, forming the basis of our final analysis. In STEMI patients, there was a trend toward a higher rate of ventriculography with femoral access compared to radial access (53.4 % vs. 47.5 %, p = 0.06), which was also observed in NSTE-ACS patients (34.2 % vs. 31.8 %, p = 0.07). The use of central venous access was more common with femoral access in all three diagnoses, with significantly higher rates seen in STEMI patients (36.2 % vs. 7.6 %, p < 0.001), NSTE-ACS patients (19.3 % vs. 2.8 %, p < 0.001), and chest pain patients (26.4 % vs. 2.7 %, p < 0.001)., Conclusions: The analysis revealed that operators may perform fewer ventriculography and RHC procedures when using radial access as compared to femoral access. While there is discrepancy in performing left ventriculography and RHC when using a radial artery, it is essential to emphasize that routinely performing ventriculography and hemodynamic assessment has not proven to impact outcomes, despite their contributions to proper decision-making and treatment., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare the following financial interests/personal relationships which may be considered as potential competing interests: Brian C. Case – Speaker: Asahi Intecc USA, Zoll Medical. Ron Waksman – Advisory Board: Abbott Vascular, Boston Scientific, Medtronic, Philips IGT, Pi-Cardia Ltd.; Consultant: Abbott Vascular, Append Medical, Biotronik, Boston Scientific, JC Medical, MedAlliance/Cordis, Medtronic, Philips IGT, Pi-Cardia Ltd., Swiss Interventional/SIS Medical AG, Transmural Systems Inc.; Institutional Grant Support: Biotronik, Medtronic, Philips IGT; Investor: Transmural Systems Inc. All other authors – None., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Objectives: An analysis was conducted to demonstrate early and midterm outcomes of using adjustable puncture needle-based in situ fenestration (ISF) technique for Ankura aortic stent graft to reconstruct the supra-arch branch in thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR)., Methods: A retrospective analysis of 68 cases of aortic lesions with insufficient proximal anchoring area admitted to our department from March 2017 to December 2021 was performed. In situ fenestration thoracic endovascular repair (TEVAR) was performed at the same time during the operation. Among them, there were fifty-eight cases of thoracic aortic dissection, seven cases of thoracic aortic aneurysm, and three cases of thoracic aortic ulcer. Intraoperative adjustable puncture with needle was used for the Ankura aorta stent graft to perform ISF and reconstruction of the supra-arch branch., Results: The success rate of ISF was 94.1% (64/68). Only in four cases, attempts were made to create ISF in the left subclavian artery (LSA), and all the four were unsuccessful because of sharp and tortuosity angle. Among them, forty-four cases were only LSA fenestration, and one case was left common carotid artery (LCCA) fenestration + LSA embolism. LSA + left vertebral artery (LVA) fenestration was performed in two cases, LSA fenestration +LCCA chimney was performed in fourteen cases, LCCA + LSA fenestration + innominate artery (INA) chimney was performed in one case, and LCCA fenestration + INA chimney + LSA embolism was performed in two cases. The overall neurologic event rate was 3.1% (spinal cord ischemia 0, with stroke observed in two cases). Postoperatively, one patient (1.6%) died on the third day after TEVAR due to the retrograde dissections. There were four cases of endoleak (6.3%; three type I and one type II). The average follow-up was 29.2 ± 14.4 months, and no patient died during the follow-up period. Three cases of endoleak disappeared, and one case did not increase further. In addition, other two cases of retrograde dissections were observed at 3 and 5 months after TEVAR. Fortunately, they were scheduled for emergency surgery with ascending aorta replacement and improved well. There was only one case of LSA occlusion after ISF which was reconstructed by endovascular treatment. Two patients were found with distal stent graft-induced new entries (dSINE), and TEVAR was performed again during the follow-up period., Conclusion: Early and midterm outcomes demonstrated that ISF via the adjustable puncture needle device for the Ankura aorta stent graft is a feasible and effective treatment method, which can achieve high technical success and satisfactory short-term results., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Background: Percutaneous radial artery access for lower extremity arterial interventions has increased in popularity in recent years. The purpose of this review is to summarize available data regarding its safety and efficacy., Methods: Studies related to the use of the percutaneous radial artery access for peripheral artery intervention were identified in a search of the PubMed database. Outcomes evaluated were access complications and technical success., Results: Thirteen studies that evaluated patients undergoing percutaneous radial artery access with peripheral interventions were reviewed. Several studies were able to demonstrate use of up to 8Fr sheath; however, the majority was 6Fr. Reported rates of asymptomatic radial artery occlusion ranged up to 16% and reported radial artery access site complication rate ranged from 0 to 15.6%. Technical success ranged from 74 to 98.7%., Conclusions: Percutaneous radial artery access can effectively and safely be used in select patients., (Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Purpose: To evaluate the technical success and complication rates of vascular closure devices (VCDs) in the axillary artery., Materials and Methods: MEDLINE and Embase were searched independently by two reviewers to identify observational studies from inception through October 2021. The following outcomes were meta-analyzed: technical success, hematoma, dissection, pseudoaneurysm, infection, and local neurological complications. Complications were also graded as mild, moderate, and severe. A logistic regression evaluating the influence of sheath size for the outcome of technical success rate was performed using individual patient-level data., Results: Of 1496 unique records, 20 observational studies were included, totaling 915 unique arterial access sites. Pooled estimates were as follows: technical success 84.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 78%-89.7%, I 2 =60.4%), hematoma 7.9% (95% CI: 5.8%-10.6%, I 2 =0%), dissection 3.1% (95% CI: 1.3%-7.3%, I 2 =0%), pseudoaneurysm 2.7% (95% CI: 1.3%-5.7%, I 2 =0%), infection <1% (95% CI: 0%-5.7%, I 2 =20.5%), and local neurological complications 2.7% (95% CI: 1.7%-4.4%, I 2 =0%). There was a significant negative association between sheath size and technical success rate (odds ratio [OR]: 0.87 per 1 French (Fr) increase in sheath size, 95% CI: 0.80-0.94, p=0.0005). Larger sheath sizes were associated with a greater number of access-site complications (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.21 per 1 Fr increase sheath size, 95% CI: 1.04-1.40, p=0.013)., Conclusions: Off-label use of VCDs in the axillary artery provides an 85% successful closure rate and variable complication rate, depending on the primary procedure and sheath size. Larger sheaths were associated with a lower technical success and greater rate of access-related complications., Clinical Impact: Safe arterial access is the foundation for arterial intervention. While the common femoral artery is a well established access site, alternative arterial access sites capable of larger sheath sizes are needed in the modern endovascular era. This article provides the largest synthesis to date on the use of vascular closure devices for percutaneous axillary artery access in endovascular intervention. It should serve clinicians with added confidence around this approach in terms of providing a reference for technical success and complications. Clinically, this data is relevant for patient consent purposes as well as for practice quality improvement in setting safety standards for this access site., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Objective: To investigate an ultrasound-guided selective puncture method for the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), targeting superior (SJS) and inferior joint spaces (IJS), using a human cadaver., Study Design: The study utilized five cadavers donated by members of our university. The cadaver's left side was aimed at the SJS, while the right side was at the IJS. Nonionic contrast was injected into each joint using a crossing technique, with the linear ultrasound probe placed parallel to the long axis of the mandibular branch and punctured perpendicularly into the joint cavity. Cone-beam computed tomography scans assessed both the TMJs examining discs and other components for damage using a gross anatomical technique., Results: Computed tomography images confirmed successful contrast agent injection into all joint spaces without damaging the articular discs or cartilage of the mandibular head., Conclusions: Our findings suggest that the ultrasound device can selectively puncture the TMJ in the SJS and IJS. In the future, the success rate is expected to improve with additional cadaver punctures. We aim to establish this technique as a viable treatment method that can be performed by oral surgeons with limited clinical experience in cadaver surgery training and a surgical technique training program using human cadavers., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Background: In septic arthritis, joint lavage can be performed using arthrocentesis (articular needle aspiration) or arthrotomy. The use of fluoroscopy to guide the puncture involves radiation. Ultrasound (US) guidance is still little recommended to guide the treatment of septic arthritis in children. We wanted to know whether treating septic arthritis in children was feasible and safe under ultrasound (US) guidance., Methods: We retrospectively included 67 children (mean age, 3.0 years; range: 1 month-12 years) treated for septic arthritis of the hip, shoulder, or ankle using arthrocentesis or arthrotomy under US or fluoroscopic guidance (non-US group) with at least two years of follow-up., Results: We found no significant difference between the groups. After arthrocentesis, patients in the US group remained in hospital for 0.8 days longer than those in the non-US group, but the difference was not significant. After arthrotomy, the arthrotomy-US group required 0.4 more days of hospitalization than the non-US group, but the difference was not significant. Patients in the US group exhibited higher initial CRP and WBC values than patients treated without US, although the differences were not significant. The WBC values of the arthrocentesis-US groups were higher than those of the non-US groups initially and at 72 h, but non significantly so; they became similar on day 5. Three puncture failures required arthrotomy (two under US guidance). Three patients required early revision surgery: one had undergone arthrocentesis with US, one arthrocentesis without US, and one arthrotomy without US. At the last follow-up, there were no clinical sequelae but two hip arthrotomies (one US and one non-US child) showed asymptomatic calcifications., Conclusions: US guidance is feasible and safe for treating septic arthritis in children, visualizing structures not shown by X-rays and avoiding radiation exposure during surgery., Level of Evidence: IV (case series)., Trial Registration: IRB-MTP&#95;2021&#95;05&#95;202100781., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: Bleeding from the puncture tract after percutaneous transhepatic portal vein intervention can become life-threatening. To date, studies about tract embolization with gelatin sponge after percutaneous transhepatic portal vein intervention are only with small numbers of patients, or non-consecutive or pediatric patients with a relatively small sheath in diameter., Purpose: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of tract embolization with gelatin sponge strips after percutaneous transhepatic poral vein access., Material and Methods: Between September 2017 and February 2024, 100 consecutive patients (61 men, 39 women; mean age = 53 ± 15 years) underwent a total of 105 portal vein interventions using a percutaneous transhepatic approach. Tract embolization for the removal of 6-8 Fr sheath was performed using gelatin sponge strips in all procedures, including 71 portal vein embolization before major hepatectomy, 27 portal balloon venoplasty or stent placement after liver transplantation, and seven other interventions., Results: No bleeding occurred after tract embolization with gelatin sponge strips. Minor portal vein thrombosis was detected in three procedures after liver transplantation and in one procedure for portal vein stenosis caused by essential thrombocytopenia. Thrombosis occurred in the punctured portal vein branch in all procedures. Thrombosis was not clinically relevant in any patient, and it was difficult to differentiate whether thrombosis was caused by sheath placement or the inserted gelatin sponge., Conclusion: Tract embolization with gelatin sponge strips after percutaneous transhepatic portal vein intervention is a safe and feasible method for preventing hemorrhage from the puncture tract., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Background: Radial artery access for coronary angiography or percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) reduces the risk of death, bleeding, and vascular complications and is preferred over femoral artery access, leading to a class 1 indication by clinical practice guidelines. However, alternate upper extremity access such as distal radial and ulnar access are not mentioned in the guidelines despite randomized trials. We aimed to evaluate procedural outcomes with femoral, radial, distal radial, and ulnar access sites in patients undergoing coronary angiography or PCI., Methods: PubMed, EMBASE, and clinicaltrials.gov databases were searched for randomized clinical trials that compared at least 2 of the 4 access sites in patients undergoing PCI or angiography. Primary outcomes were major bleeding and access site hematoma. Intention-to-treat mixed treatment comparison meta-analysis was performed., Results: From 47 randomized clinical trials that randomized 38 924 patients undergoing coronary angiography or PCI, when compared with femoral access, there was a lower risk of major bleeding with radial access (odds ratio [OR], 0.46 [95% CI, 0.35-0.59]) and lower risk of access site hematoma with radial (OR, 0.34 [95% CI, 0.24-0.48]), distal radial (OR, 0.33 [95% CI, 0.20-0.56]), and ulnar (OR, 0.50 [95% CI, 0.31-0.83]) access. However, when compared with radial access, there was higher risk of hematoma with ulnar access (OR, 1.48 [95% CI, 1.03-2.14])., Conclusions: Data from randomized trials support guideline recommendation of class 1 for the preference of radial access over femoral access in patients undergoing coronary angiography or PCI. Moreover, distal radial and ulnar access can be considered as a default secondary access site before considering femoral access., Registration: URL: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/; Unique identifier: 42024512365., Competing Interests: Dr Bangalore is on the Advisory Board for Abbott Vascular, Boston Scientific, Biotronik, Amgen, Pfizer, Merck, Reata, Inari, and Truvic. The other authors report no conflicts.

Transfemoral access is nowadays required for an increasing number of percutaneous procedures, such as structural heart interventions, mechanical circulatory support, and interventional electrophysiology/pacing. Despite technological advancements and improved techniques, these devices necessitate large-bore (≥12 French) arterial/venous sheaths, posing a significant risk of bleeding and vascular complications, whose occurrence has been related to an increase in morbidity and mortality. Therefore, optimizing large-bore vascular access management is crucial in endovascular interventions. Technical options, including optimized preprocedural planning and proper selection and utilization of vascular closure devices, have been developed to increase safety. This review explores the comprehensive management of large-bore accesses, from optimal vascular puncture to sheath removal. It also discusses strategies for managing closure device failure, with the goal of minimizing vascular complications., Competing Interests: Drs Burzotta and Trani received speaker fees from Abbott Vascular, Abiomed, Medtronic, and Terumo. Dr Paraggio received speaker fees from Abiomed and Terumo. Dr Aurigemma received speaker fees from Abbott Vascular, Abiomed, Medtronic, Terumo, and Daiichi Sankyo. Dr Romagnoli received speaker fees from Abiomed, Abbott Vascular, and Terumo. Dr Bianchini received a research grant from Abbott Vascular. The other authors report no conflicts of interest to declare.

Background: Ultrasound guidance for radial arterial cannulation is currently considered a best practice approach despite its clear advantages over the blind and palpation technique, the success rate is related to several factors, including clinician's experience and technical ability. The study aimed to explore the use of a novel track guidance ultrasound that may increase the success rate of radial arterial cannulation., Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted, in which 80 adults scheduled for elective surgery requiring radial arterial cannulation were recruited and randomly assigned to either the experimental group, which utilized novel track ultrasound guidance (group T, n  = 40), or the control group, which utilized traditional ultrasound guidance (group U, n  = 40). The novel track guidance ultrasound comprises a positioning track and a guided track. The radial artery could be positioned at the center of the positional track on the ultrasound image, and the direction and angle of needle are fixed and toward the center of the positioning track. The primary endpoint of the study was the first-pass cannulation success rate, while the secondary endpoints included the failure rate of cannulation, the number of radial artery punctures, the time of cannulation, and the incidence of hematoma., Results: The success rate of cannulation at the first attempt in group T (35 of 40 (87.5%)) was significantly higher than that in group U (23 of 40 (57.5%); p  = 0.003). Although seven patients in Group U (7 of 40 (17.5%)) experienced failed cannulation compared to one in Group T (1 of 40 (2.5%)), the difference in failure rate between the two groups did not reach statistical significance ( p  = 0.06)., Conclusions: The implementation of novel track ultrasound guidance has demonstrated a notable improvement in the success rates at the first attempt while reducing the frequency of punctures and cannulation times., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Background: Radial artery cannulation is usually done for monitoring invasive blood pressure during intraoperative period. The dynamic needle tip positioning approach allows continuous visualization of the needle tip during ultrasound-guided cannulation. The acoustic shadowing technique, using two lines on the ultrasound probe, might be used to facilitate radial artery puncture. We aimed to compare these two ultrasound-guided techniques of radial artery cannulation with the traditional palpation method in adult patients., Methods: In this trial, 180 adult patients requiring arterial cannulation were randomized into three groups (Traditional palpation (TP), Dynamic needle tip positioning (DNTP), and acoustic shadow technique (AST)). All cannulations were carried out by experienced anesthetists. Data was analyzed for the success rate of arterial cannulation in the first attempt, total number of attempts in 5 min, time taken to cannulate, number of cannulas used, and complications related to the procedure., Results: The first attempt success rates among TP, DNTP, and AST were 66.7%, 66.7%, and 71.7%, respectively ( p  = 0.794). The median time taken for cannulation was 60.5 (37.0, 129.5) s, 71.0 (50.0, 170.0) s, and 108.0 (58.0, 181.0) s, respectively ( p  = 0.066) and the median number of cannulation attempts was 1, in all the three groups ( p  = 0.684). There was also no difference in the total number of cannulas used, the overall success rate of cannulation, and complications related to the procedure in the three groups., Conclusion: The TP, DNTP, and AST technique for radial artery cannulation had comparable first attempt success rate, the time taken for cannulation, the number of cannulas used, and overall complications. We conclude that radial arterial cannulation by palpation, as well as ultrasound-guided DNTP and AST techniques performed by experienced clinicians in hemodynamically stable adult patients are equally advantageous., Competing Interests: Declaration of conflicting interestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.