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• Preoperative frailty contributes to morbidity in patients with arterial disease. • Frailty predicts increased care needs following major vascular surgery. • Increased care requirements persist 6 months after surgery. • Discussion of loss of independence should form part of informed consent. To assess if frailty scoring can predict increased frailty and care dependence requiring a change in living situation in patients with peripheral artery disease (PAD) following major vascular surgery. A single center, retrospective cohort study. Fiona Stanley Hospital, a tertiary center located in Perth, Western Australia. Seventy-nine patients with PAD who underwent major vascular surgery at the study hospital in 2022 were enrolled. Baseline Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS) scores were assigned retrospectively. A quantitative analysis using two partitions, CFS 1-3 (not frail) versus 4-9 (frail) was used. Cases were screened for hospital-acquired complications, and records were reviewed to assess the level of care dependence at the time of discharge and 6 months following. The primary outcome was to assess if frailty predicts increased care dependence. Secondary outcomes included unplanned readmissions and hospital-acquired complications in this cohort. A logistic regression was performed to predict the effects of age and baseline, discharge, and 6-month CFS on the likelihood of change in living situation. Baseline frailty was associated with a higher frailty score at discharge (p = 0.001), which persisted at 6 months (p = 0.001). There was no difference in American Society of Anesthesiologists classification, sex, age, 30-day mortality, or in-hospital complications between groups. After correcting for age, a lower baseline CFS (odds ratio 0.19, confidence interval 0.04-0.84, p = 0.028) and discharge CFS (odds ratio 34.00, confidence interval 3.88-298.42, p = 0.001) predicts the likelihood of patients having a change in living situation after surgery. Frail patients with PAD undergoing major vascular surgery are at significant risk of functional decline, necessitating a change in living situation to meet their increased care needs. This increased care dependence persisted 6 months following discharge. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background A surgeon experiences elevated stress levels when operating. Acute stress is linked to cognitive overload, worsening surgical performance. Chronic stress poses a significant risk to a surgeon's health. Identifying intraoperative stress may allow for preventative strategies that reduce surgeons' stress and subsequently improve patient outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility of using heart rate variability as a marker of stress during vascular surgery. Methods A total of 11 senior surgeons were evaluated performing three different vascular surgery procedures. Heart rate variability metrics (low-frequency to high-frequency ratio and standard deviation of the normal-normal interval) were determined from single-lead ECG traces at predetermined procedural performance points. State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-6, a validated stress tool, was used to assess surgeon-reported stress. Subjective reports of procedural difficulty were also collected. One-way ANOVA compared heart rate variability at key performance points with baseline. Pearson's coefficient assessed correlation between heart rate variability and subjective stress. Results Data were collected for six carotid endarterectomies, six open abdominal aortic aneurysm repairs, and five lower limb bypasses. Heart rate variability metrics indicating markedly greater stress were observed at key performance points across all procedures. Peaks in stress were consistent across different surgeons performing the same procedure. A significant correlation was observed between heart rate variability metrics and subjective State-Trait Anxiety Inventory-6 stress reports (r = 0.768, P =<0.001). The most difficult procedural steps reported corresponded with heart rate variability metrics displaying the greatest stress. Conclusion Heart rate variability may be a viable approach to assess intraoperative stress and cognitive load during vascular surgery and could be used to evaluate whether a theatre intervention (for example timeout) could reduce stress in areas of surgical difficulty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose Treatment at a dedicated trauma center significantly reduces the mortality rate after trauma. High-quality trauma care requires well-established systems. Moreover, the presence of an on-site trauma surgeon during resuscitation improves outcomes. Although the trauma system history, including trauma centers in South Korea, is relatively short, it has developed rapidly, and trauma surgeons’ roles have also been established. This study aimed to show clinical performance, particularly in trauma surgery, and the outcomes of a regional trauma center serving as a Level 1 trauma center in South Korea. Methods Using the Korean Trauma Data Bank, data collected at Ajou University Hospital Trauma Center between January 2020 and December 2022 was retrospectively analyzed. Patients’ demographic characteristics, mechanisms of injuries, trauma surgery types, and outcomes were evaluated. Results There were 9,205 patients admitted with trauma, of whom 1,149 underwent trauma surgery (including laparotomy, thoracotomy, pelvic packing, neck surgery, and peripheral vascular surgery). A total of 1,787 trauma surgeries were performed, and the mean time to surgery for hypotensive patients with hemorrhagic shock from arrival was approximately 50 minutes. Damage control surgery including laparotomy, thoracotomy, and pelvic packing accounted for 12% of cases. It was determined that the mortality rate (excluding death on arrival) was less than 5%, and the length of hospital stay decreased over the study period. Conclusion Clinical performance, particularly in trauma surgery, conducted by dedicated trauma surgeons, has led to favorable clinical outcomes at a regional trauma center in South Korea.

Popliteal entrapment syndrome (PES) describes a cluster of symptoms related to the compression of the neurovascular bundle in the popliteal fossa, most commonly involving the popliteal artery. In approximately 10-15% of the cases of popliteal entrapment syndrome, the popliteal vein is compressed. Symptoms of popliteal vein entrapment can mimic venous insufficiency or deep venous thrombosis, causing the diagnosis to be missed or delayed. Diagnosis of popliteal vein entrapment can be done with duplex imaging with flexion and extension maneuvers; however, venography is the gold standard for diagnosis. While popliteal vein entrapment is commonly associated with younger individuals, it may also be an underdiagnosed condition in older patients. We describe two cases of successful diagnosis and treatment of late-onset presentation of popliteal vein entrapment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article provides an overview of the use of ketamine as a treatment for depression. It discusses the history of ketamine, how it works, and its potential benefits in treating depression. The article also addresses the limitations and potential side effects of ketamine, as well as ongoing research in this field. It offers a comprehensive summary of the current knowledge on ketamine as a potential treatment for depression. [Extracted from the article]

The authors thank the editors for this opportunity to review the recent literature on vascular surgery and anesthesia and provide this clinical update. The last in a series of updates on this topic was published in 2019. 1 This review explores evolving discussions and current trends related to vascular surgery and anesthesia that have been published since then. The focus is on the major points discussed in the recent literature in the following areas: carotid artery surgery, infrarenal aortic surgery, peripheral vascular surgery, and the preoperative evaluation of vascular surgical patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and inferior mesenteric artery (IMA) are vital vascular structures supplying the majority of the intestinal tract. Despite their clinical significance, comprehensive morphometric studies combining traditional cadaveric dissection with modern imaging techniques are scarce in literature. This study aimed to provide a detailed morphometric analysis of the SMA and IMA using both cadaveric dissection and multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) angiography. Methods: The study utilized a dual approach, combining cadaveric dissection (30 formalin-fixed cadavers) and MDCT angiography (images from 50 patients). Measurements including stem lengths, diameters at origin, and distances from the aortic bifurcation were taken, along with assessment of vertebral levels of origin and branching patterns. Data from both components were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Key findings for SMA include: Mean stem length: 3.19 ± 0.72 cm (cadaveric) vs. 2.53 ± 0.53 cm (MDCT); Mean diameter at origin: 0.93 ± 0.22 cm (cadaveric) vs. 0.57 ± 0.10 cm (MDCT); Most common vertebral level of origin: Upper border of L1 (78 % of cases); Branching pattern variations observed in 23.3 % of cadaveric specimens, which included the origin of the inferior pancreaticoduodenal artery from the first jejunal artery, a common trunk for right colic and ileocolic arteries, and absence of middle colic artery. For IMA: Mean stem length: 3.61 ± 1.29 cm (cadaveric) vs. 3.41 ± 0.69 cm (MDCT); Mean diameter at origin: 0.50 ± 0.11 cm (cadaveric) vs. 0.26 ± 0.05 cm (MDCT); Most common vertebral level of origin: Upper border of L3 (40 % of cases). No variations observed in branching pattern. Conclusions: The detailed measurements, frequency of variations, and comparison between traditional and modern assessment techniques offer a nuanced understanding of mesenteric vascular anatomy. This study bridges the gap between classical anatomical knowledge and contemporary imaging capabilities, potentially improving surgical planning, interventional procedures, and radiological interpretation.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is the lower limb manifestation of systemic atherosclerotic disease. PAD may initially present with symptoms of intermittent claudication, whilst chronic limb-threatening ischaemia (CLTI), the end stage of PAD, presents with rest pain and/or tissue loss. PAD is an age-related condition present in over 10% of those aged ≥65 in high-income countries. Guidelines regarding definition, diagnosis and staging of PAD and CLTI have been updated to reflect the changing patterns and presentations of disease given the increasing prevalence of diabetes. Recent research has changed guidelines on optimal medical therapy, with low-dose anticoagulant plus aspirin recommended in some patients. Recently published randomised trials highlight where bypass-first or endovascular-first approaches may be optimal in infra-inguinal disease. New techniques in endovascular surgery have increased minimally invasive options for ever more complex disease. Increasing recognition has been given to the complexity of patients with CLTI where a high prevalence of both frailty and cognitive impairment are present and a significant burden of multi-morbidity and polypharmacy. Despite advances in minimally invasive revascularisation techniques and reduction in amputation incidence, survival remains poor for many with CLTI. Shared decision-making is essential, and conservative management is often appropriate for older patients. There is emerging evidence of the benefit of specialist geriatric team input in the perioperative management of older patients undergoing surgery for CLTI. Recent UK guidelines now recommend screening for frailty, cognitive impairment and delirium in older vascular surgery patients as well as recommending all vascular surgery services have support and input from specialist geriatrics teams. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Arterial thoracic outlet syndrome (aTOS) is a rare, but potentially, limb-threatening condition that is often misdiagnosed. We present the case of a 29-year-old man who was initially managed under the presumption of primary Raynaud's phenomenon for >1 year before the correct diagnosis of aTOS, and the delay in diagnosis was complicated by substantial distal thromboembolic occlusion. Successful staged treatment included thoracic outlet decompression, subclavian artery aneurysm repair with subclavian-to-axillary bypass, anticoagulation, and an unconventional axillary-to-ulnar artery bypass. This report highlights the diagnostic challenges of aTOS and the importance of considering it in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon and vaso-occlusive symptoms.

Objective: Ischaemia and reperfusion can result in permanent tissue damage. During complex open abdominal aortic surgery, transient clamping of the renovisceral arteries may be required to successfully complete the vascular repair. Endovascular shunting (endoshunting) presents an alternative technique for managing such temporary renovisceral ischaemia. This study aimed to investigate the performance of endoshunting to the renal circulation in a porcine model. Methods: This study of five domestic pigs investigated arterial volume flow rates during endoshunting of a single renal artery and the associated impact on renal perfusion parameters (laser Doppler renal parenchymal perfusion, renal oxygen extraction, and selective urinary output). The study was performed in three steps: baseline registrations (30 minutes), endoshunting (120 minutes), and restoration (60 minutes). The right kidney was used as the experimental side and the left kidney as control. Results: The median arterial flow rate in the left control kidney remained constant throughout the experiment. On the right (endoshunted) side, the baseline median arterial flow rate was 267 (range, 160–404) mL/min. Following activation of the endoshunt, the median arterial volume flow dropped by 59%–110 (range, 45–150) mL/min (p = .018). During endoshunting, the median kidney surface perfusion decreased to 42% of the baseline value. On the control side, a rise in the median parenchymal perfusion was observed after endoshunt activation, which was again normalised following restoration of native right renal artery flow. During endoshunting, the median regional urine production was 0.32 (range, 0.12–0.50) mL/hour but resumed after renal artery flow restoration. Conclusion: On average, the endoshunted kidneys showed a rapid restoration of blood flow, parenchymal perfusion, and urine production after 120 minutes of endoshunting. This suggests that endoshunting to the kidney using an endoshunt system might be a promising strategy to preserve renal function when temporary interruption of native renal artery blood flow is needed during complex vascular surgical repairs involving the renal arteries.

Objective: Temporary arterial shunting is an established method to prevent tissue ischaemia. Although less well established, shunting might also be achieved through endovascular and hybrid techniques, known as endoshunting. Endoshunting offers advantages, for example, enabling minimally invasive access and avoiding complete occlusion of the donor artery. In an ex vivo bench test, volume flow in various interconnected endoshunt systems has been tested previously. This study aimed to investigate the capacity of the best performing endoshunt system in vivo. Methods: Six anaesthetised pigs had their common iliac arteries (CIAs) explored, with the left CIA serving as the experimental and the right CIA as the control. Mean arterial pressure, regional blood flow, endoshunt flow, and regional oxygen extraction and lactate production were recorded. Distal muscle perfusion was monitored using near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Each experiment involved baseline registration, cross clamping of the left CIA, a 120 minute endoshunt session, and restoration of native flow. Results: During cross clamping, NIRS values on the experimental side reached the lowest measurable value. Following endoshunt activation, there were no NIRS value differences between the experimental and control extremities whereas the average arterial flow decreased in both the experimental (270–140 mL/min, p = .028) and control extremities (245–190 mL/min, p = .25), with a greater drop on the endoshunted side (48% vs. 22%, respectively). Lactate levels temporarily increased by 42% in the endoshunted limb on endoshunt activation but were normalised within an hour. Oxygen extraction remained constant at 55% on the control side but increased to 70% on the endoshunted side (p = .068). Conclusion: In this animal model, a flow optimised endoshunt system appeared to provide sufficient blood flow and restored stable tissue perfusion. Although arterial flow was slightly lower and oxygen extraction slightly higher on the endoshunted side, the endoshunt seemed to deliver adequate perfusion to prevent significant ischaemia.

In patients with severe aorto-iliac calcifications, vascular reconstructions can be performed in order to allow kidney transplantation. The aim of this study was to analyze the outcomes of kidney transplant candidates who underwent an aortobifemoral bypass (ABFB) for aorto-iliac calcifications. A retrospective study including all kidney transplant candidates who underwent an ABFB between 2012 and 2022 was performed. Primary outcome was 30-day morbidity-mortality after ABFB. Secondary outcome was accessibility to kidney transplant waiting list. Twenty-two ABFBs were performed: 10 ABFBs in asymptomatic patients presenting severe aorto-iliac circumferential calcifications without hemodynamic consequences, and 12 ABFBs in symptomatic patients in whom aorto-iliac calcifications were responsible for claudication or critical limb threatening ischemia. Overall 30-day mortality was 0%. Overall 30-day morbidity was 22.7%: 1 femoral hematoma and 1 retroperitoneal hematoma requiring surgical drainage in the asymptomatic group, and 2 digestive ischemia requiring bowel resection and 1 femoral hematoma requiring surgical drainage in the symptomatic group. Among the 22 patients, 20 patients could access to kidney waiting list and 8 patients underwent a kidney transplantation, including 3 living-donor transplantations. Aorto-iliac revascularization can be an option to overcome severe calcifications contraindicating kidney transplantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lower extremity revascularization via groin incisions can be complicated by wound dehiscence associated with infection, seroma and femoral vessel exposure. This may require additional surgical debridement and coverage of vascular structures and grafts. The pedicled rectus femoris muscle flap (RFF) has both bulk and a large arc of rotation, making it useful for reconstruction. Its main pedicle is the descending branch of the lateral femoral circumflex artery (DLFCA), a branch of the profunda femoris artery. One could anticipate that ligation of more proximal vasculature could lead to ischemia of the RFF. We present two patients who each underwent vascular surgery involving the common femoral artery and subsequent reconstruction utilizing a pedicled RFF. Both patients then required additional vascular procedures involving the ligation of inflow vessels proximal to the DLFCA. The flaps remained viable, demonstrating the rich collateralization of blood supply that occurs in vascular disease patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective Consequently, in this study, we aimed to evaluate 1,203 cases of referral to a quaternary vascular surgical service, in São Paulo, Brazil, over a 6-year period, to assess the appropriate need for referral; in addition to the prevalence of surgical indications. Methods In this retrospective analysis, we reviewed the institutional records of participants referred from Basic Healthcare Units to a vascular surgical service inside the Brazilian Unified Health System, between May 2015 and December 2020. Demographic and clinical data were collected. The participants were stratified, as per the reason for referral to the vascular surgical service, previous imaging studies, and surgical treatment indications. Referral appropriateness and complementary examinations were evaluated for each disease cohort. Finally, the prevalence of cases requiring surgical treatment was defined as the outcome measure. Results Of the 1,203 referrals evaluated, venous disease was the main reason for referral (53%), followed by peripheral arterial disease (19.4%). A considerable proportion of participants had been referred without complementary imaging or after a long duration of undergoing an examination. Referrals were regarded as inappropriate in 517 (43%) cases. Of these, 32 cases (6.2%) had been referred to the vascular surgical service, as the incorrect specialty. The percentage of referred participants who ultimately underwent surgical treatment was 39.92%. Carotid (18%) and peripheral arterial diseases (18.4%) were correlated with a lower prevalence of surgical treatments. Conclusion The rate of referral appropriateness to specialized vascular care from primary care settings was low. This may represent a subutilization of quaternary surgical services, with low rates of surgical treatment.

Introduction: Organ transplantation is limited by the supply of transplantable organs, and the supply of organs cannot meet the needs of patients on the waiting list. Ensuring transplantation of any procured organ is therefore mandatory. Organ injury, mostly to the organ's vasculature, can occur during multi-organ procurement, preventing subsequent transplantation. In such a context, vascular reconstructions of arterial or venous organ injuries can be useful. Report: This report describes the case of an obese 64 year old female with a history of diabetic nephropathy who underwent a cadaveric kidney transplant (right kidney with one main renal artery, one inferior polar artery, one vein, and one ureter). The ex situ preparation of the graft revealed that the main renal artery was injured and cut close to the renal hilum (0.8 cm length, 6 mm diameter), not allowing graft implantation. In order to increase the length of the main renal artery, the donor inferior vena cava was used to create a tubular conduit, allowing subsequent graft implantation. Cold and warm ischaemic times were respectively 12 hours and 36 minutes, with immediate graft function. The patient was discharged on day 8 (serum creatinine level was 95 μmol/L). Twelve month follow up was uneventful (serum creatinine level was 108 μmol/L and duplex ultrasonography showed homogeneous blood flow throughout the graft). Discussion: This case report highlights the possibility of overcoming an injured kidney graft artery by creating a tubular vena cava conduit in order to allow subsequent transplantation. Vascular reconstructions of organs injured during procurement should be considered.

In patients with severe aorto-iliac calcifications, vascular reconstructions can be performed in order to allow kidney transplantation. The aim of this study was to analyze the outcomes of kidney transplant candidates who underwent an aortobifemoral bypass (ABFB) for aorto-iliac calcifications. A retrospective study including all kidney transplant candidates who underwent an ABFB between 2012 and 2022 was performed. Primary outcome was 30-day morbidity-mortality after ABFB. Secondary outcome was accessibility to kidney transplant waiting list. Twenty-two ABFBs were performed: 10 ABFBs in asymptomatic patients presenting severe aorto-iliac circumferential calcifications without hemodynamic consequences, and 12 ABFBs in symptomatic patients in whom aorto-iliac calcifications were responsible for claudication or critical limb threatening ischemia. Overall 30-day mortality was 0%. Overall 30-day morbidity was 22.7%: 1 femoral hematoma and 1 retroperitoneal hematoma requiring surgical drainage in the asymptomatic group, and 2 digestive ischemia requiring bowel resection and 1 femoral hematoma requiring surgical drainage in the symptomatic group. Among the 22 patients, 20 patients could access to kidney waiting list and 8 patients underwent a kidney transplantation, including 3 living-donor transplantations. Aorto-iliac revascularization can be an option to overcome severe calcifications contraindicating kidney transplantation.

BackgroundArteriovenous (AV) grafts often develop severe complications of stenosis due to neointimal proliferation that occurs either at the venous anastomosis site or at the outflow receiving vein. This study compares primary patency during 12 months of follow up for a new experimental Biomodics© interpenetrating polymer network (IPN) drug-eluting graft prototype with state-of-the-art GORE® ACUSEAL (ACUSEAL) in an AV graft model in sheep.Methods and resultsAn end-to-end bypass from the common carotid artery to the jugularis vein was performed bilaterally in 12 sheep. The usage of ACUSEAL or the IPN, both 6.0 mm in diameter, was determined via randomization. The sheep were followed up every 4 weeks with ultrasonic duplex scanning to determine patency; the experienced observer was blinded to the randomization. One sheep died after 11 days, and the final sample accordingly consisted of 11 animals. When comparing neointimal hyperplasia after 12 months in the two grafts, Fisher's exact test showed a significant difference with none out of 11 in the IPN grafts and 9 out of 11 in the ACUSEAL graft (p

Objectives: Ectopic breast cancer may present anywhere in the milk line, from the axilla to the groin which is extremely rare in the inguinal region. Despite morphologic differences, ectopic breast tissue presents characteristics related to orthotopic breast tissue in terms of function and pathologic degeneration. The case report describes the treatment of a unique ectopic breast carcinoma which was located in the inguinal region with a common femoral vein invasion. Methods: We present a unique case of an ectopic breast carcinoma presenting in an unusual anatomic location along the milk line. The study was approved by the local Ethics Committee (protocol no: 12.01.2023-2023/02) Informed consent was obtained from the patient. Results: The patient is surgically treated and supplemented with neoadjuvant chemotherapy,radiotherapy and endocrine therapy. Histopathological examination revealed the diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma. The right common femoral vein was reconstructed with bovine pericardial patch after totally removal of the mass. Conclusions: This report alerts the reader to be cognizant of the unusual location of an ectopic breast cancer which was detected in the inguinal region with a common femoral vein invasion and discusses the treatment, suggesting novel therapeutic advice that could bring considerable clinical advantages. A multidisciplinary approach should be warranted in such cases to confirm a complete remission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To justify the up front risks of offering elective interventions for intermittent claudication (IC), patients should have reasonable life expectancy to derive durable clinical benefits. Open surgery for chronic limb threatening ischaemia (CLTI) is maximally beneficial in patients surviving ≥ 2 years. The aim was to assess long term survival after IC and CLTI interventions. In a retrospective cohort analysis, the Vascular Quality Initiative (VQI) registry from 1 January 2010 to 31 May 2021 was queried for peripheral vascular intervention (PVI), infra-inguinal bypasses (IIB), and supra-inguinal bypasses (SIB) for IC and CLTI across 286 US centres. VQI linkage to Medicare insurance claims provided five year survival data. Multivariable analysis identified factors associated with five year mortality. There were 31 457 PVIs (44.7% IC, 55.3% CLTI), 7 978 IIBs (26.9% IC, 73.1% CLTI), and 2 149 SIBs (50.1% IC, 49.9% CLTI) recorded in the VQI. Among the PVI, IIB, and SIB cohorts, average ages were 75, 73, and 72 years, respectively. Respective five year mortality after PVI for IC and CLTI was 37.2% and 71.1%; after IIB for IC and CLTI it was 37.8% and 60%; and after SIB for IC and CLTI it was 33.8% and 53.8%. On multivariable analysis, across all procedures, end stage renal disease, CLTI, congestive heart failure, anaemia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and prior amputation were independently associated with increased mortality. Pre-admission home living and pre-operative aspirin use were independently associated with decreased mortality. Long term survival in Medicare patients undergoing interventions in VQI centres for peripheral arterial disease is poor. Two thirds of CLTI patients and over one third of IC patients were not alive at five years. Intervening for IC in patients with high mortality risk should be avoided. For CLTI patients identified with decreased survival likelihood, intervention durability may be less important than invasiveness. Pre-operative medical optimisation should always be undertaken. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Retroperitoneal tumor resection commonly disturbs major vessels; therefore, surgical teams can recruit vascular surgeons to prevent injuries and improve the prognosis of oncologic patients. The objective of the present study is to establish long-term survival after retroperitoneal tumor resection surgery with an emphasis on the potential impact of preventing or repairing major vessel injuries when tumors are adjacent to the aorta or vena cava. Methods: Retrospective case series including all cases of surgical removal of retroperitoneal tumors between 2007 and 2020 in a highly specialized hospital in Mexico City. Long-term survival was defined as 5 years after surgical intervention. Descriptive statistics, group-comparison tests, and regression analysis were performed using Stata 16. Results: From a total of 70 cases, vascular injury occurred in 30 (42.8%) and the vascular surgeon intervened in 19 (27.1%) of them, 4 (21%) were performed by a vascular surgeon with planned intervention, and in 9 (47.3%) cases the vascular surgeon was called to join the surgery due to emergency. Intraoperative bleeding was 2-fold greater in the group with an emergent participation of vascular surgery in contrast with the planned intervention group (4, 235 mL vs 2, 035 mL, p = 0.04). The regression model revealed a significant association between the intervention of a vascular surgeon and long-term survival (OR 59.3, p = 0.03) after adjusting for sociodemographic and characteristics of oncologic nature. Conclusions: Planned intervention of vascular surgeons in retroperitoneal tumor resection may have a positive impact not only in trans-operatory period, but also on long-term survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article titled "Unplanned Index Limb Revascularization With Rivaroxaban Versus Placebo in Patients With Critical Limb-Threatening Ischemia After Endovascular and Surgical Treatment: Insights From VOYAGER PAD" discusses the results of the VOYAGER PAD study, which examined the efficacy of rivaroxaban in reducing ischemic events, including unplanned index limb revascularization (UILR), in patients undergoing lower-extremity revascularization (LER) for symptomatic peripheral artery disease (PAD). The study found that rivaroxaban reduced UILR by 22% in patients with critical limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI), regardless of the initial LER method (surgical or endovascular). The findings suggest that rivaroxaban may be beneficial in reducing repeat revascularization in patients with CLTI. However, it is important to note that the trial was not powered to show statistical significance for the UILR endpoint within the subgroups presented. [Extracted from the article]

Aim: Vascular injuries can result from various causes, including trauma, surgery, or medical procedures, and can present immediate life-threatening risks. While some injuries are readily apparent and require urgent intervention, others may not display obvious signs of vascular compromise during the initial evaluation, potentially leading to delayed major complications. Analyse errors in the primary treatment of vascular injuries and delayed presentation of overlooked vascular injuries as surrogate indicators of the need for improved vascular surgical training for future surgeons. Material and Methods: At the İnönü University Cardiovascular Surgery Clinic between June 2011 and June 2019, a All instances of unidentified vascular injuries that present post-trauma in the form of pseudoaneurysm, arteriovenous fistula, and post-traumatic arterial occlusion were reported within the hospitals during the study duration. Results: This study included 28 patients undergoing multiple vascular repair interventions at our institution, including 14 penetrating, 10 blunt and 4 iatrogenic. Vessels of the lower limbs were involved in 18 cases (64.2%), vessels of the upper limbs in 7 cases (25%) and vessels of the neck in 2 cases (7.14%). All patients underwent surgical procedures without any fatalities or loss of limb function. There were no fatalities or unanticipated amputations. Conclusion: Vascular injuries may lead to noteworthy delayed complications occurring months or even years subsequent to the initial injury, including false aneurysms, dissections, occlusions, and fistulas, which may cause considerable disability, albeit, fortunately, they are typically not fatal. Patients with suspected injury, even in the absence of clear clinical signs of vascular injury, should be carefully monitored and a detailed examination is recommended to assess individuals with potential vascular injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is a common minimally invasive technique used to treat varicose veins. The most commonly used laser wavelengths for EVLA/EVLT of varicose veins are 810 nm and 1470 nm. The laser pulse frequency is typically set to continuous wave (CW) mode, with a pulse duration of a few milliseconds (ms) delivered in a radial mode. The energy delivered per pulse is typically set between 40 and 120 Joules, with a power setting of 10 to 30 watts and an intensity setting of 40 to 120 J/cm2. The controversy exists regarding the benefits of performing saphenofemoral junction (SFJ) ligation prior to EVLA to decrease the recurrence rate of varicose veins. This meta-analysis aims to investigate the effectiveness of combining EVLA with high ligation versus using EVLA alone in treating lower extremity varicose veins. We conducted a systematic search of four databases from their inception until July 1, 2022, for randomized controlled trials and prospective controlled trials evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of EVLA with or without high ligation for the treatment of lower extremity varicose veins. In analyzing binary data, rate difference (RD) is used, while odds ratio (OR) is used for evaluating the confidence interval (CI) of binary data. A P value of less than 0.05 is deemed statistically significant. Heterogeneity is assessed using the chi-square test. If the I2 statistic, which reflects statistical heterogeneity, is greater than 50%, a random-effects model should be used. In the absence of significant statistical heterogeneity, a fixed-effects model should be used if I2 is less than 50%. We used the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool to assess the quality of the studies and Review Manager 5.4 for the primary and secondary outcome analysis. The meta-analysis was conducted in accordance with the Cochrane Handbook. There were no significant differences in the rate of major complications (RR = 1.63; 95% CI, 0.40–6.69; P = 0.50) or in the frequency of minor complications (RR = 1.07, 95% CI, 0.87–1.31; P = 0.52) between the EVLA with high ligation (EVLA/HL) group and the EVLA group. However, the rate of vein occlusion was significantly lower in the EVLA group than in the EVLA/HL group (RR = 1.06; 95% CI, 1.03–1.09; P = 0.0004). Our meta-analysis indicates that combining EVLA with high ligation provides stable long-term clinical efficacy in treating varicose veins of the lower extremities, although it increases the invasiveness of the surgery. The use of EVLA alone may be less effective in preventing vein occlusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective : The use of indocyanine green videoangiography (ICG-VA) to assess blood flow in the brain during cerebrovascular surgery has been increasing. Clinical studies on ICG-VA have predominantly focused on qualitative analysis. However, quantitative analysis numerical modelling for time profiling enables a more accurate evaluation of blood flow kinetics. In this study, we established a multiple exponential modified Gaussian (multi-EMG) model for quantitative ICG-VA to understand accurately the status of cerebral hemodynamics. Methods : We obtained clinical data of cerebral blood flow acquired the quantitative analysis ICG-VA during cerebrovascular surgery. Varied asymmetric peak functions were compared to find the most matching function form with clinical data by using a nonlinear regression algorithm. To verify the result of the nonlinear regression, the mode function was applied to various types of data. Results : The proposed multi-EMG model is well fitted to the clinical data. Because the primary parameters—growth and decay rates, and peak center and heights—of the model are characteristics of model function, they provide accurate reference values for assessing cerebral hemodynamics in various conditions. In addition, the primary parameters can be estimated on the curves with partially missed data. The accuracy of the model estimation was verified by a repeated curve fitting method using manipulation of missing data. Conclusion : The multi-EMG model can possibly serve as a universal model for cerebral hemodynamics in a comparison with other asymmetric peak functions. According to the results, the model can be helpful for clinical research assessment of cerebrovascular hemodynamics in a clinical setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key Clinical Message: We report a case involving an elderly man who successfully underwent superficial femoral artery–anterior tibial artery bypass via the lateral femoropopliteal route following development of a stent infection after placement of a small‐diameter covered stent for a ruptured superficial femoral artery pseudoaneurysm. This report suggests that appropriate treatment strategies for device infection subsequent to device removal are paramount for the prevention of reinfection and preservation of the affected extremity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Patients who have undergone vascular operations are thought to be at an increased risk for developing pressure injuries; however, the extent to which pressure injuries occur in this population is not clear. This scoping review sought to summarize what is known about the incidence of pressure injuries, and the risk factors for the development of pressure injuries in patients who have undergone vascular operations. Main An initial search identified 2564 articles, and 9 English language studies were included. Results showed that due to study design limitations in the available literature preventing hospital-acquired and present on admission pressure injuries to be distinguished, it is difficult to ascertain the incidence rate of pressure injuries in this population. Conclusion Certain vascular procedures were found to be higher risk for the development of pressure injuries such as major amputations and lower extremity bypass surgery. In addition to procedural risk factors, patient factors were identified that may be associated with the development of pressure injuries in the vascular population, and these in the authors’ view deserve further exploration. Overall, this scoping review identified an area ripe for future research, the results of which would have implications for wound care in healthcare institutions and at home.

Background/Aim. Although distal venous patch and cuff techniques are recommended to improve the patency of by-pass in the lower extremities, the advantage of these techniques remains unproven. Autovenous bypass graft remains the method of choice, but when there is no possibility of using the great saphenous vein, the venous cuff method may have an advantage. The aim of this study was to evaluate the results of femorodistal bypass procedures with a venous cuff in critical lower extremity ischemia. Methods. The study described the results of femorodistal bypass procedures after a follow-up period of 6 to 24 months. We followed 28 patients with distal composite anastomosis of femorodistal arterial reconstruction. Indications for surgical treatment were set on the basis of the clinical exam and morphological criteria based on multidetector computed tomographic angiography. Three types of distal graft-arterial anastomoses were applied: Miller’s cuff, Taylor’s patch, and St. Mary’s vein boot anastomosis. Results. After 6 months of surgery, all bypasses were passable; after one year, 2 (7%) patients had graft occlusion and above-knee amputation, and 8 (28%) patients died; after 24 months, 18 (64%) patients had primary bypass patency. Conclusion. Femorodistal bypass procedures using a synthetic graft and venous cuff have good long-term results. The optimal anastomosis type is St. Mary’s boot. A longer follow-up period and comparison with the autovenous bypass are necessary for a more detailed assessment of the final conclusion.

Objective: Acute tissue ischaemia may arise due to arterial emergencies or during more complex vascular procedures and may be mitigated by temporary shunting techniques. Endovascular shunting (ES) techniques enable percutaneous access and shunting from the donor artery without the need to completely interrupt the arterial flow in the donor artery. An endoshunt system may also cover longer distances than most conventional shunts. The aim was to investigate and optimise the flow rates in different endovascular shunt systems. Methods: Step 1: The flow capacity of different ES configurations was compared with the flow capacity of a 9 Fr Pruitt–Inahara shunt (PIS). An intravenous bag with 0.9% NaCl, pressurised to 90 mmHg, was connected simultaneously to a PIS and to one of the tested ES configurations. The two shunt systems were then opened at the same time. The delivered fluid volumes from the shunt systems were collected and measured. The volume flow rate was subsequently calculated. Steps 2 and 3: Within a heart lung machine circuit, pressure–flow charts were constructed for the individual ES components and for the fully connected optimised endoshunt systems. The flow rate was increased in steps of 40–50 mL/min while monitoring the driving pressure, enabling the creation and comparison of the pressure–flow charts for the individually tested components. In total, seven individual inflow and outflow potential ES components were investigated with inflow and outflow diameters ranging from 6 to 15 Fr. Results: ES systems based on standard donor introducers led to substantially lower volume flow than the corresponding PIS volume flow, whereas ES systems based on dedicated 6 or 8 Fr dialysis access introducers (Prelude Short Sheath, Merit Medical) matched PIS flow rates. The introduction of 30 cm long ¼′′ perfusion tubing within the ES system did not affect volume flow for any of the tested ES configurations. Conclusion: Endoshunting techniques can match PIS volume flow rates over short and long distances. The achieved ES flow rate is highly dependent on the components used within the ES system.

Objective: Acute tissue ischaemia may arise due to arterial emergencies or during more complex vascular procedures and may be mitigated by temporary shunting techniques. Endovascular shunting (ES) techniques enable percutaneous access and shunting from the donor artery without the need to completely interrupt the arterial flow in the donor artery. An endoshunt system may also cover longer distances than most conventional shunts. The aim was to investigate and optimise the flow rates in different endovascular shunt systems. Methods: Step 1: The flow capacity of different ES configurations was compared with the flow capacity of a 9 Fr Pruitt–Inahara shunt (PIS). An intravenous bag with 0.9% NaCl, pressurised to 90 mmHg, was connected simultaneously to a PIS and to one of the tested ES configurations. The two shunt systems were then opened at the same time. The delivered fluid volumes from the shunt systems were collected and measured. The volume flow rate was subsequently calculated. Steps 2 and 3: Within a heart lung machine circuit, pressure–flow charts were constructed for the individual ES components and for the fully connected optimised endoshunt systems. The flow rate was increased in steps of 40–50 mL/min while monitoring the driving pressure, enabling the creation and comparison of the pressure–flow charts for the individually tested components. In total, seven individual inflow and outflow potential ES components were investigated with inflow and outflow diameters ranging from 6 to 15 Fr. Results: ES systems based on standard donor introducers led to substantially lower volume flow than the corresponding PIS volume flow, whereas ES systems based on dedicated 6 or 8 Fr dialysis access introducers (Prelude Short Sheet, Merit Medical) matched PIS flow rates. The introduction of 30 cm long ¼′′ perfusion tubing within the ES system did not affect volume flow for any of the tested ES configurations. Conclusion: Endoshunting techniques can match PIS volume flow rates over short and long distances. The achieved ES flow rate is highly dependent on the components used within the ES system.

Background/Aim. Popliteal artery aneurysm (PAA) is the most common peripheral artery aneurysm and the second most common aneurysm following abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Still, its incidence is rare, and treatment is non-standardized. The collection of data in a multicenter registry could improve the diagnosis and treatment of PAA. SerbVasc is a newly established data collection collaboration among vascular centers in Serbia. The aim of this study was to present common surgical practices in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with PAA in hospitals in Serbia. Methods. Vascular centers in Serbia that accepted the invitation collected data retrospectively concerning patients operated on for PAA from 2012 to 2018. Data regarding symptoms, preoperative diagnostics, vascular and endovascular techniques, and postoperative results were collected. This data set was submitted to the VASCUNET international project of PAA for data analysis between the countries. The same data set was used for a detailed analysis of the contemporary treatment of PAA in six hospitals in Serbia: University Clinical Center of Serbia, "Dedinje" Cardiovascular Institute, Military Medical Academy, University Clinical Center Novi Sad, University Clinical Center Niš, and General Hospital Užice. Results. From 2012 to 2018, in six hospitals in Serbia, data for 342 procedures on treating PAA were collected for 329 (96.2%) men and only 13 (3.8%) women. The incidence of PAA repair was 6.8 operations per million inhabitants a year. The mean age of patients was 64.34 years (ranging from 29 to 87). A total of 223 (65.8%) elective procedures were performed. Amputation and hospital survival were considered the main outcomes. Thrombosis was recorded in 110 (32.5%) patients as a cause for surgery, and rupture was recorded in 5 patients. The mean diameter of the aneurysm was 35.3 mm, and a slightly larger diameter was recorded in ruptured aneurysms - 43.8 mm on average. Both synthetic and vein grafts were used in elective and urgent procedures equally. Endovascular procedures were performed in 6 (1.8%) cases. Conclusion. This study confirms the importance of registry-based collection of data and their analysis. It showed that the national incidence of PAA in Serbia is low and that well-organized, even institutionbased, screening algorithms should improve identifying such patients and increase the number of electively treated PAA. Educating vascular surgeons to use the posterior approach could improve vascular healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vascular graft and endograft infections (VGEIs) are a feared complication because of their morbidity, cost, and mortality. Despite broad and varying strategies, as well as limited evidence, societal guidelines do exist. The objective of this review was to supplement current guidelines with emerging and multimodal techniques for treatment. An electronic search was performed using PubMed with specific search terms from 2019 to 2022 in which VGEIs were described or analyzed in the carotid, thoracic aorta, abdominal, or lower extremity arteries. A total of 12 studies were collected from the electronic search. Articles describing all of the anatomic areas were present. The incidence of VGEIs depends on the anatomic location, varying from <1% to 18%. Gram-positive bacteria are the most common organism. Referral of patients with VGEIs to centers of excellence is paramount, as is pathogen identification, preferably from direct sampling techniques. The MAGIC (Management of Aortic Graft Infection Collaboration) criteria have been endorsed for all VGEIs and validated for aortic VGEI. They are well supplemented with additional diagnostic techniques. Treatment must be individualized, although the goal should be the removal of infected material with appropriate revascularization. VGEIs remain a devastating complication, despite changing or improving medical surgical techniques in vascular surgery. Prophylactic measures, early diagnosis, and patient-specific therapy remain the cornerstones of treatment for this feared complication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The present study aimed to assess whether high-risk American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA)-Physical Status was an independent risk factor for the development of surgical site infection (SSI) after infra-inguinal lower extremity bypass (LEB). Summary of Background Data: The ASA-Physical Status Classification System assesses the overall physical status preoperatively. ASA-Physical Status is associated with postoperative morbidity and mortality. However, limited data are available on how ASA-Physical Status Class affects the development of SSI after infra-inguinal LEB. Methods: Patients who had undergone infra-inguinal LEB from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2018, for obliterative arteriopathy or popliteal aneurysm at our university hospital were included. SSI risk factors were identified using multivariable logistic regression. The length of hospital stay, major limb events (MALE), major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE), and all-cause mortality were compared for patients with SSI versus those without SSI 3 months and 1- year of follow-up after the index surgery. Results: Among the 267 patients included, 30 (11.2%) developed SSI during the 3-month period and 32 (12%) at 1 year. ASA-Physical Status ≥3 [odds ratio (OR): 3.7, 95% confidence interval CI) 1.5–11.1], emergency surgery (OR: 2.7, 95% CI 1.2–6.0), general anesthesia (OR: 2.8, 95% CI 1.3–6.1), and procedure performed by a junior surgeon (OR: 2.7, 95% CI 1.3–6.0) were independently associated with SSI. At 3 months and 1 year, SSI was significantly associated with MALE (including surgical wound debridement, subsequent thrombectomy, major amputation), length of hospital stay, and all-cause mortality. Conclusion: The ASA-Physical Status should be considered in medical management when an infra-inguinal LEB is considered in frail patients, to prevent surgical complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The bovine pericardium is a good alternative material to the autogenous vein in vascular reconstruction. This study aimed to evaluate the results of angioplasty in venous reconstruction using bovine pericardium and identify the risk factors for significant complications. Material and Methods: A retrospective review was performed of the demographic data, clinical characteristics, and complications of patients who underwent vessel repair using bovine pericardium between February 2012 and December 2020. Univariate analysis was used to compare complication frequencies within several categories. Results: There were 36 cases of patch angioplasty using bovine pericardium. The median age was 65 years; 61% of them were men. Of the 36 venous repairs, 31 (86.1%) were from cancer surgery and five (13.9%) were from iatrogenic injury. Patch shape was used in 27 cases (75.0%), while tube shape was used in nine cases (25.0%). The incidence of occlusion and partial thrombus was five (13.9%) and three (8.3%) cases, respectively. Of the nine tube-shaped angioplasties, four (44.4%) required reoperation due to early thrombosis (three cases) and hematoma (one case). Conclusion: The use of a bovine pericardial patch in the reconstruction of a damaged vein from tumor invasion or iatrogenic injury is feasible. However, the complication rate of vessel patency remains substantial, especially in cases of iatrogenic injury or when a tube-shaped form is used for repair. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze the refusal rate of elective aortic aneurysm surgery in asymptomatic patients after the presentation of a detailed informed consent form followed by a meeting where patient and their families can analyze each item. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of 49 patients who had aneurysms and were offered surgical treatment between June 2017 and February 2019. The patients were divided into two groups: the Rejected Surgery Group, which was composed of patients who refused the proposed surgical treatment, and the Accepted Surgery Group, comprising patients who accepted the proposed surgeries and subsequently underwent them. Results Of the 49 patients, 13 (26.5%) refused surgery after reading the informed consent and attending the comprehensive meeting. We observed that patients who refused surgery had statistically smaller aneurysms than those who accepted surgery (9% versus 26%). These smaller aneurysms were above the indication size, according to the literature. Conclusion One-quarter of patients who were indicated for elective surgical repair of aortic aneurysms rejected surgery after shared decision-making, which involved presenting patients with an informed consent form followed by a clarification meeting for them and their families to analyze each item. The only factor that significantly influenced a rejection of the procedure was the size of the aneurysm; patients who rejected surgery had smaller aneurysms than those who accepted surgery.

ABSTRACT Objective To evaluate outcomes of vascular surgeries and identify strategies to improve public vascular care. Methods This was a descriptive, qualitative, and cross-sectional survey involving 30 specialists of the Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein via Zoom. The outcomes of vascular procedures performed in the Public Health System extracted through Big Data analysis were discussed, and 53 potential strategies to improve public vascular care to improve public vascular care. Results There was a consensus on mandatory reporting of some key complications after complex arterial surgeries, such as stroke after carotid revascularization and amputations after lower limb revascularization. Participants agreed on the recommendation of screening for diabetic feet and infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms. The use of Telemedicine as a tool for patient follow-up, auditing of centers for major arterial surgeries, and the concentration of complex arterial surgeries in reference centers were also points of consensus, as well as the need to reduce the values of endovascular materials. Regarding venous surgery, it was suggested that there should be incentives for simultaneous treatment of both limbs in cases of varicose veins of the lower limbs, in addition to the promotion of ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy in the public system. Conclusion After discussing the data from the Brazilian Public System, proposals were defined for standardizing measures in population health care in the area of vascular surgery.

Key Clinical Message We report a case involving an elderly man who successfully underwent superficial femoral artery–anterior tibial artery bypass via the lateral femoropopliteal route following development of a stent infection after placement of a small‐diameter covered stent for a ruptured superficial femoral artery pseudoaneurysm. This report suggests that appropriate treatment strategies for device infection subsequent to device removal are paramount for the prevention of reinfection and preservation of the affected extremity.

Tumor-based arterial thromboembolism in patients with cancer is a poorly described concept that lacks evidence for surgical indications owing to its unusual occurrence. The study and understanding of this condition’s etiology is, however, essential because it could constitute the initial presentation or determine the prognosis of oncologic disease. In the present report, we have described the case of a 77-year-old female patient with multiple cerebral, splenic, and upper limb arterial embolic episodes. Embolectomy for acute upper limb ischemia revealed the histopathologic diagnosis of an anaplastic thyroid tumor.

Background This study aimed to investigate outcomes after extremity arterial injury repair and examined the association between outcomes and the degree of soft tissue injury and vascular repair methods. Methods A retrospective study was conducted on 106 patients (108 cases) who underwent emergent microsurgical repair of extremity arterial injury due to trauma and non-perfusion of the affected extremity. The cases were divided into three groups by degree of associated soft tissue injuries: (A) adequate soft tissue coverage over the injured major vessels after radical debridement, (B) inadequate soft tissue coverage over the injured major vessels after radical debridement, and (C) radical debridement was not feasible due to unclear extent of injured soft tissue. Differences in vascular repair methods and outcomes among the three groups were analyzed. Results In Group A (n = 61), microvascular suture and vessel graft achieved 95.1% and 85.0% successful limb reperfusion, respectively. In Group B (n = 31), vessel reconstruction with flap coverage achieved 100% successful reperfusion. Vessel graft achieved 28.6% successful limb reperfusion, while there were no cases of successful reperfusion using microvascular sutures. In Group C (n = 16), no vascular repair method achieved successful reperfusion. There were significant differences among the three groups in successful reperfusion (p

Purpose: This study aimed to (1) evaluate the outcomes of below-knee prosthetic bypass (BKPB) in the absence of the great saphenous vein, and (2) identify risk factors associated with these outcomes. Materials and Methods : This study included 37 consecutive patients who underwent BKPB with or without distal modification between 2010 and 2022. We further assessed the following treatment outcomes: primary patency (PP), secondary patency (SP), limb salvage (LS), and amputation-free survival (AFS) rates. The risk factors for PP were also examined. Results : Most patients (n=31) were male. In 32 (86.5%) patients, BKPBs were performed for chronic limb-threatening ischemia. At the time of initial admission, two (5.4%) early deaths and three (8.1%) major amputations were noted. At 1 year after BKPB, the overall PP, SP, LS, and AFS rates were 78%, 85%, 85%, and 70%, respectively; at 3 years, they were 58%, 70%, 80%, and 52%, respectively; and at 5 years, they were 35%, 58%, 62%, and 29%, respectively. Notably, PP was significantly lower in limbs with ≤1 patent tibial arteries than in limbs with ≥2 patent artery (hazard ratio [HR], 3.80; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14-12.69 for overall; and HR, 12.97; 95% CI, 2.15-78.08 for distal anastomosis to below-knee popliteal artery). However, the PP was unaffected by the distal modification. Conclusion : BKPB is a viable option for LS in patients with extensive femoropopliteal disease. Tibial runoff was significantly correlated with patency; therefore, decision-making for BKPB and follow-up must involve careful evaluation of the outflow arteries.

Background: Patients who have undergone vascular operations are thought to be at an increased risk for developing pressure injuries; however, the extent to which pressure injuries occur in this population is not clear. This scoping review sought to summarize what is known about the incidence of pressure injuries, and the risk factors for the development of pressure injuries in patients who have undergone vascular operations. Main: An initial search identified 2564 articles, and 9 English language studies were included. Results showed that due to study design limitations in the available literature preventing hospital-acquired and present on admission pressure injuries to be distinguished, it is difficult to ascertain the incidence rate of pressure injuries in this population. Conclusion: Certain vascular procedures were found to be higher risk for the development of pressure injuries such as major amputations and lower extremity bypass surgery. In addition to procedural risk factors, patient factors were identified that may be associated with the development of pressure injuries in the vascular population, and these in the authors' view deserve further exploration. Overall, this scoping review identified an area ripe for future research, the results of which would have implications for wound care in healthcare institutions and at home. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze the refusal rate of elective aortic aneurysm surgery in asymptomatic patients after the presentation of a detailed informed consent form followed by a meeting where patient and their families can analyze each item. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of 49 patients who had aneurysms and were offered surgical treatment between June 2017 and February 2019. The patients were divided into two groups: the Rejected Surgery Group, which was composed of patients who refused the proposed surgical treatment, and the Accepted Surgery Group, comprising patients who accepted the proposed surgeries and subsequently underwent them. Results: Of the 49 patients, 13 (26.5%) refused surgery after reading the informed consent and attending the comprehensive meeting. We observed that patients who refused surgery had statistically smaller aneurysms than those who accepted surgery (9% versus 26%). These smaller aneurysms were above the indication size, according to the literature. Conclusion: One-quarter of patients who were indicated for elective surgical repair of aortic aneurysms rejected surgery after shared decision-making, which involved presenting patients with an informed consent form followed by a clarification meeting for them and their families to analyze each item. The only factor that significantly influenced a rejection of the procedure was the size of the aneurysm; patients who rejected surgery had smaller aneurysms than those who accepted surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To evaluate outcomes of vascular surgeries and identify strategies to improve public vascular care. Methods: This was a descriptive, qualitative, and cross-sectional survey involving 30 specialists of the Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein via Zoom. The outcomes of vascular procedures performed in the Public Health System extracted through Big Data analysis were discussed, and 53 potential strategies to improve public vascular care to improve public vascular care. Results: There was a consensus on mandatory reporting of some key complications after complex arterial surgeries, such as stroke after carotid revascularization and amputations after lower limb revascularization. Participants agreed on the recommendation of screening for diabetic feet and infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms. The use of Telemedicine as a tool for patient follow-up, auditing of centers for major arterial surgeries, and the concentration of complex arterial surgeries in reference centers were also points of consensus, as well as the need to reduce the values of endovascular materials. Regarding venous surgery, it was suggested that there should be incentives for simultaneous treatment of both limbs in cases of varicose veins of the lower limbs, in addition to the promotion of ultrasound-guided foam sclerotherapy in the public system. Conclusion: After discussing the data from the Brazilian Public System, proposals were defined for standardizing measures in population health care in the area of vascular surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anne L Meulenbroek,1 Miriam C Faes,2 Stefanie R van Mil,1 MG Buimer,1 Hans GW de Groot,1 Eelco J Veen,1 Gwan H Ho,1 Leandra JM Boonman-de Winter,3,4 Jolanda de Vries,5,6 Rebecca van Gorkom,1 Fleur Toonders,1 Rene van Alphen,7 Karolien van Overveld,8 Nathalie Verbogt,1 Ewout W Steyerberg,9 Lijckle van der Laan1,10 1Department of Surgery, Amphia Hospital, Breda, the Netherlands; 2Department of Geriatrics, Amphia Hospital, Breda, the Netherlands; 3Department of Scientific Research, Amphia Hospital, Breda, the Netherlands; 4Admiraal de Ruyter Ziekenhuis, Goes, the Netherlands; 5Department of Medical and Clinical Psychology, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands; 6Board, Admiraal de Ruyter Hospital, Goes, the Netherlands; 7Department of Physical Therapy, Amphia Hospital, Breda, the Netherlands; 8Department of Dieticians, Amphia Hospital, Breda, the Netherlands; 9Department of Biomedical Data Sciences, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands; 10Department of Cardiovascular Science, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, BelgiumCorrespondence: Anne L Meulenbroek, Department of Surgery, Amphia Hospital, Molengracht 21, Breda, 4818 CK, the Netherlands, Tel +31 76 595 3157, Fax +31 76 595 3818, Email AMeulenbroek1@amphia.nlObjective: Chronic limb threatening ischemia is the final stage of peripheral arterial disease. Current treatment is based on revascularization to preserve the leg. In the older, hospitalized chronic limb threatening ischemia patient, delirium is a frequent and severe complication after revascularization. Delirium leads to an increased length of hospital stay, a higher mortality rate and a decrease in quality of life. Currently, no specific guidelines to prevent delirium in chronic limb threatening ischemia patients exist. We aim to evaluate the effect of a multicomponent, multidisciplinary prehabilitation program on the incidence of delirium in chronic limb threatening ischemia patients ≥ 65 years.Design: A prospective observational cohort study to investigate the effects of the program on the incidence of delirium will be performed in a large teaching hospital in the Netherlands. This manuscript describes the design of the study and the content of this specific prehabilitation program.Methods: Chronic limb threatening ischemia patients ≥ 65 years that require revascularization will participate in the program. This program focuses on optimizing the patient’s overall health and includes delirium risk assessment, nutritional optimization, home-based physical therapy, iron infusion in case of anaemia and a comprehensive geriatric assessment in case of frailty. The primary outcome is the incidence of delirium. Secondary outcomes include quality of life, amputation-free survival, length of hospital stay and mortality. Exclusion criteria are the requirement of acute treatment or patients who are mentally incompetent to understand the procedures of the study or to complete questionnaires. A historical cohort from the same hospital is used as a control group.Discussion: This study will clarify the effect of a prehabilitation program on delirium incidence in chronic limb threatening ischemia patients. New insights will be obtained on optimizing a patient’s preoperative mental and physical condition to prevent postoperative complications, including delirium.Trial: This protocol is registered at the Netherlands National Trial Register (NTR) number: NL9380.Keywords: chronic limb threatening ischemia, vascular surgical procedures, delirium, delirium/prevention and control, prehabilitation

Peripheral artery disease affects approximately 250 million people globally. Multiple randomised controlled trials have compared bypass and endovascular interventions but the optimum revascularisation approach remains unclear. The recently published BEST-CLI and BASIL-2 trials provide current and robust data addressing this question, however their findings are not concordant. This systematic review and meta-analysis provides an overview of the worldwide randomised evidence comparing bypass surgery and endovascular revascularisation in lower limb peripheral artery disease.A comprehensive literature search of MEDLINE, Embase and CENTRAL databases was performed of all time periods up to 7 May 2023 to identify randomised controlled trials comparing bypass and endovascular revascularisation for treating lower limb peripheral artery disease. The primary outcome was major amputation. Secondary outcomes were mortality, re-intervention, 30-day adverse events and 30-day mortality. Odds ratios were calculated and pooled using the random-effects model. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk of bias 2 tool.Fourteen cohorts were identified across thirteen studies, enrolling 3840 patients. There was no significant difference in major amputation (OR 1.12; 95% CI 0.80-1.57) or mortality (OR 0.96; 95% CI 0.79-1.17) between the bypass and endovascular groups. Bypass was associated with a significant reduction in re-intervention compared with endovascular treatment (OR 0.57, 95% CI 0.40-0.82).These findings suggest that rates of major amputation and mortality are similar following bypass and endovascular interventions. Patients who undergo bypass surgery have a significantly lower re-intervention rate post-operatively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]