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Statin use is associated with higher long-term survival after abdominal aortic aneurysm repair. However, the association between statin use and survival after thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) has not been established. We performed a review of prospectively collected data of all patients who had undergone TEVAR in the Vascular Quality Initiative between 2014 and 2020. We excluded patients aged <18 years, those who had presented with trauma, and those who had received custom-manufactured or physician-modified devices. We evaluated the association between preoperative statin therapy and in-hospital mortality and complications and 5-year mortality. We also analyzed the trend of preoperative statin use in elective cases for the previous 7 years. To account for nonrandom assignment to treatment, we used propensity score matching of patient characteristics, comorbidities, pathology, and urgency for preoperative statin use. We used logistic regression and Cox regression for the short-term and 5-year outcomes, respectively. Of 6266 patients who had undergone TEVAR and met the inclusion criteria, 3331 (53%) patients had been taking a statin preoperatively, including 1148 of 2267 (64%) treated for aneurysmal disease. After propensity score matching, 1875 patients were in each cohort. Preoperative statin use was associated with lower rates of any perioperative complication (16.7% vs 19.6%; odds ratio, 0.82; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.69-0.97; P =.022). Overall, preoperative statin use was also associated with lower 5-year mortality (18.8% vs 24.5%; hazard ratio [HR], 0.74; 95% CI, 0.63-0.89; P =.001). When stratified by urgency, preoperative statin use was associated with lower 5-year mortality after elective TEVAR (14.9% vs 22.4%; HR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.49-0.79; P <.001) but not after urgent or emergent TEVAR (27.4% vs 29.1%; HR, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.70-1.14; P =.37). When stratified by pathology, preoperative statin use was associated with significantly lower 5-year mortality for patients with aneurysms (HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.48-0.83; P =.001). Although the mortality was also lower for patients with dissection and "other" pathology, these differences did not reach statistical significance. Between 2014 and 2019, a significant increase had occurred in statin use among patients undergoing elective TEVAR, from 56% in 2014 to 64% in 2019 (P =.007). Preoperative statin therapy is associated with lower perioperative complication rates and 5-year mortality for patients undergoing TEVAR. All patients with known thoracic aortic pathology should receive statin therapy unless contraindications for the drug are present. For patients undergoing elective TEVAR, the statin prescription percentage should be considered a quality metric, and further implementation research should occur to improve preoperative statin use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the most effective endovascular treatment modalities for de novo femoropopliteal lesions in intermittent claudication (IC) in terms of technical success, primary patency, target lesion revascularization (TLR) and all-cause mortality through network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Medical databases were searched on December 3, 2020. 16 studies (3265 patients) and 7 treatments were selected. Outcomes were technical success, primary patency, TLR and mortality at 6 and/or 12 months. Regarding 6-month primary patency, drug-eluting stents (DES) was better than balloon angioplasty (BA; odds ratio [OR], 23.27; 95% confidence interval [CI], 12.57-43.06), drug-coated balloons (DCB; OR, 5.63; 95% CI, 2.26-14.03) and directional atherectomy (DA; OR, 31.52; 95% CI, 7.81-127.28), and bare nitinol stents (BNS) was better than BA (OR, 17.91; 95% CI, 7.22-44.48), DCB (OR, 4.33; 95% CI, 1.40-13.45) and DA (OR, 24.27; 95% CI, 5.16-114.11). Regarding 12-month primary patency, DES was better than BA (OR, 10.05; 95% CI, 4.56-22.16), DCB (OR, 3.70; 95% CI, 1.54-8.89) and DA (OR, 29.54; 95% CI, 7.26-120.26). DCB and combination of balloon and atherectomy were the most effective treatment regarding 12-month TLR and technical success (residual stenosis <30%), respectively. DES, BNS and DA with DCB (DA-DCB) were included in the best cluster in the clustered ranking plot combining 12-month primary patency and TLR. Balloon and atherectomy may confer advantages over other treatments for technical success; DCB may for TLR. Stent technologies confer substantial advantages regarding primary patency. Stent technologies and DA-DCB should be given priority in treating femoropopliteal lesions in IC. • DES and BNS had higher primary patency rates than those for BA, DCB and DA. • DCB might have the lowest TLR rates among endovascular treatments. • All-cause mortality rates were similar among endovascular treatments. • Balloon-atherectomy technologies might have the highest technical success rates. • DES, BNS and DA-DCB were the best in clustered ranking plot for patency and TLR [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 79-year-old man with a history of atrial fibrillation presented for evaluation of sudden onset of intermittent claudication of the left lower limb. An angiogram revealed thrombotic total occlusion of the left superficial femoral artery (SFA). A 10-Fr sheath was antegradely inserted into the left common femoral artery (CFA), and the guidewire penetrated the lesion. Thromboaspiration using an 8-Fr long sheath inserted into a 10-Fr short sheath was performed repeatedly. Intravenous anticoagulant was administrated immediately after endovascular treatment. Follow-up angiography performed 12 days after the procedure confirmed the absence of residual thrombus in the SFA. Thromboaspiration using a large-diameter catheter is a feasible, cost-effective strategy for treatment of acute and subacute limb ischemia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aortocaval fistula is primarily arisen from necrotic aortic tissue with disrupted connective tissue and adherent to adjacent venous structures mostly in abdominal aortic aneurysms. The endoleak which appeared after endovascular aneurysm repairs can also cause this presentation. Thrill is possible to be felt in abdominal examination in aortocaval fistulas, and skin changes suggestive of venous hypertension usually occur in the body. Aortocaval fistula can cause high output cardiac failure, require an immediate intervention and endovascular methods are considered to be prior in its treatment. In this article, we present endovascular treatment of aortocaval fistula secondary to Type 3 endoleak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between post-implantation syndrome (PIS) and long term outcomes, with emphasis on cardiovascular prognosis. One hundred and forty-nine consecutive patients undergoing EVAR in a tertiary institution were previously included in a study investigating the risk factors and short term consequences of PIS (defined as tympanic temperature ≥ 38°C and CRP > 10 mg/L, after excluding complications with an effect on inflammatory markers). This study was based on a prospectively maintained database. Survival status was derived from inquiry of civil registry database information and causes of death from the Dutch Central Bureau of Statistics. The primary endpoint was cardiovascular events. Secondary endpoints were overall and specific cause mortality (cardiovascular, ischaemic heart disease, AAA, and cancer related mortality). Aneurysm sac dynamics and occurrence of endoleaks were also analysed. Survival estimates were obtained using Kaplan–Meier plots and a multivariable model was constructed to correct for confounders. The PIS incidence was 39% (58/149). At the time of surgery, patients had a mean age of 73 ± 7 years and were predominantly male. There were no baseline differences between the PIS and non-PIS groups. The median follow up was 6.4 years (3.2 – 8.3), similar in both groups (p =.81). There was no difference in cardiovascular events for PIS and non-PIS patients (p =.63). However, Kaplan–Meier plots suggest a trend towards a higher rate of cardiovascular events in PIS patients during the first years: freedom from cardiovascular events at one year was 94% vs. 89% and at three years 90% vs. 82%. No differences were found in overall and specific cause mortality. There was a higher rate of type II endoleaks for non-PIS patients (28% vs. 9%, p =.005). Sac dynamics were similar in both groups. The results suggest that PIS is not associated with a statistically significantly higher risk of cardiovascular events. PIS had no impact on mortality. Lastly, PIS patients had fewer type II endoleaks, but sac dynamics were analogous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PurposeTo develop a high temporal resolution MR imaging technique that could be used with magnetically assisted remote control (MARC) endovascular catheters.Materials and methodsA technique is proposed based on selective intra-arterial injections of dilute MR contrast at the beginning of a fluoroscopic MR angiography acquisition. The initial bolus of contrast is used to establish a vascular roadmap upon which MARC catheters can be tracked. The contrast to noise ratio (CNR) of the achieved roadmap was assessed in phantoms and in a swine animal model. The ability of the technique to permit navigation of activated MARC catheters through arterial branch points was evaluated.ResultsThe roadmapping mode proved effective in phantoms for tracking objects and achieved a CNR of 35.7 between the intra- and extra-vascular space. In vivo, the intra-arterial enhancement strategy produced roadmaps with a CNR of 42.0. The artifact produced by MARC catheter activation provided signal enhancement patterns on the roadmap that experienced interventionalists could track through vascular structures.ConclusionA roadmapping approach with intra-arterial contrast-enhanced MR angiography is introduced for navigating the MARC catheter. The technique mitigates the artifact produced by the MARC catheter, greatly limits the required specific absorption rate, permits regular roadmap updates due to the low contrast agent requirements, and proved effective in the in vivo setting. Inc.

In 2015, mechanical thrombectomy (MT) in combination with intravenous thrombolysis was demonstrated to be superior to best medical treatment alone in patients with anterior circulation stroke. This finding resulted in an unprecedented boost in endovascular stroke therapy, and MT became widely available. MT was initially approved for patients presenting with large vessel occlusion in the anterior circulation (intracranial internal carotid artery or proximal middle cerebral artery) within a 6-hour time window. Eventually, it was shown to be beneficial in a broader group of patients, including those without known symptom-onset, wake-up stroke, or patients with posterior circulation stroke. Technical developments and the implementation of novel thrombectomy devices further facilitated endovascular recanalization for acute ischemic stroke. However, some aspects remain controversial. Is MT suitable for medium or very distal vessel occlusions? Should emergency stenting be performed for symptomatic stenosis or recurrent occlusion? How should patients with large vessel occlusion without disabling symptoms be treated? Do certain patients benefit from MT without intravenous thrombolysis? In the era of personalized decision-making, some of these questions require an individualized approach based on comorbidities, imaging criteria, and the severity or duration of symptoms. Despite its successful development in the past decade, endovascular stroke therapy will remain a challenging and fascinating field in the years to come. This review aims to provide an overview of patient selection, and the indications for and execution of MT in patients with acute ischemic stroke.

To evaluate the best endovascular treatment for de novo femoropopliteal lesions at long-term follow-up through network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Medical databases were searched on September 17, 2023. 17 trials and 7 treatments were selected. Outcomes were primary patency, target lesion revascularization (TLR), major amputation and all-cause mortality at 3 and/or 5 years. Regarding 3-year primary patency, drug-eluting stents (DES) was the best and better than balloon angioplasty (BA; odds ratio [OR], 4.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.68–9.18), bare metal stents (BMS; OR, 2.81; 95% CI, 1.45–5.46), cryoplasty (OR, 6.75; 95% CI, 2.76–16.50), covered stents (CS; OR, 3.25; 95% CI, 1.19–8.87) and drug-coated balloons (DCB; OR, 2.04; 95% CI, 1.14–3.63). Regarding 5-year primary patency, DES was the best and better than BMS (OR, 2.34; 95% CI, 1.10–4.99). Regarding 3-year TLR, DES was the best and better than BA (OR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.13–0.44). Regarding 5-year TLR, DES was the best and better than BA (OR, 0.20; 95% CI, 0.09–0.42) and balloon angioplasty with brachytherapy (OR, 0.21; 95% CI, 0.06–0.74). Regarding 3- and 5-year major amputation, DCB was the best. Regarding 3-year mortality, DES was the best and better than CS (OR, 0.09; 95% CI, 0.01–0.67). DES was the best treatment regarding 3-year primary patency, TLR and mortality, and DCB was the best regarding major amputation. DES was the best treatment regarding 5-year TLR, and DCB was the best regarding primary patency and major amputation. DES and DCB should be given priority in treating femoropopliteal lesions. • DES was the best regarding 3-year primary patency, TLR, mortality, and 5-year TLR. • DCB was the best regarding 3- and 5-year major amputation, and 5-year primary patency. • DES and DCB should be given priority in treating de novo femoropopliteal lesions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Large-bore uncovered stents provide rapid symptom relief for patients with malignant superior vena cava syndrome. • The overall complication rate related to the procedure is low, at 7.8%. • The patency rate of large-bore uncovered stents is comparable to that of covered stents. • Large-bore uncovered stents provide a sufficient diameter for subsequent central venous catheter insertion. To investigate the safety and efficacy of large-bore uncovered stents for treating malignant superior vena cava syndrome. This retrospective study included 115 patients (89 men, 26 women; mean age 63.2 years; range 21–83 years) who underwent endovascular large-bore (≥18 mm in diameter) uncovered stent placement between August 2015 and July 2022. One patient was lost to follow-up. Therefore, 114 patients were available for follow-up. Stent placement was technically successful in all 115 patients. Minor procedure-related complications occurred in nine (7.8 %) patients. One hundred eight (93.9 %) patients experienced complete or marked symptomatic relief (Kishi score ≤ 2) at a mean of 3 days after procedure. The cumulative stent patency rates were 98.2 %, 95 %, 93.7 %, 91.5 %, 83.5 %, and 83.5 % at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months, respectively. Stent occlusion occurred in ten (8.8 %) of 114 patients at a mean of 215 days (range 1 – 732 days) due to thrombosis (n = 7) and tumor ingrowth (n = 3). Stent occlusion did not occur in 21 patients who underwent subsequent central venous catheter insertion. The median patient survival time was 159 days (95 % confidence interval 102 – 216 days). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed adjuvant anticancer treatment (p = 0.001) and tumor response (p < 0.001) as independent predictors of patient survival. Endovascular placement of large-bore uncovered stents was a safe and effective treatment for malignant superior vena cava syndrome. Large-bore stent placement can effectively prevent stent occlusion by tumor ingrowth in most cases, and it can provide a sufficient diameter for subsequent insertion of central venous catheters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Coral reef aorta (CRA) is a rare aortic occlusive disease with calcified intraluminal lesions. We report the case of a patient with CRA who underwent endovascular treatment (EVT). A 78-year-old woman presented with intermittent claudication. A computed tomography scan showed a preocclusive calcified lesion in the infrarenal aorta. EVT with a balloon-expandable stent graft was successfully performed, and her intermittent claudication improved. Compared with the conventional surgical treatments for CRA, EVT with a balloon-expandable stent graft is less invasive. This procedure is an effective option for the treatment of CRA.

Introduction: The objective is to evaluate the frequency of primary obstruction events (PrO) during one-year follow-up after performing excisional atherectomy with the SilverHawk/TurboHawk atherectomy device (S/TH) or remote superficial femoral artery endarterectomy (RSFAE) in patients with the chronic superficial femoral artery occlusive disease (СSFAOD). Methods: We included all randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and not-RCTs concerning the treatment of patients with СSFAOD after S/TH and RSFAE without duration. Results: Twenty-nine items (1990-2017) were discovered; 27 articles on the levels of evidence were included in qualitative synthesis; 9 studies (meta-analysis) were included in quantitative synthesis. The results of 2762 patients’ treatment were summed up in our analysis (1422 patients S/TH; 1340 patients RSFAE). All included reports were at low risk of bias. According to the criterion "frequency of PrO" during one-year follow-up, the pooled Hazard Ratios indicate significant favours of S/TH if compared it with RSFAE (HR= 0.66 (0.57 to 0.76, P < 0.00001), I2 = 9%). Conclusion: Our study showed that S/TH with the SpiderFX device (distal embolic protection) are safe and effective treatment option for short lesion (15 cm) in patients with СSFAOD, RSFAE may be considered better than an endovascular procedure. But still it is necessary to conduct well-planned randomized studies to determine effectiveness and safety of the compared methods (S/TH and RSFAE) in patients with long-segment lesion (>15 cm).

Abstract During the last decade, the management of acute ischemic stroke has changed dramatically, from an expectant bedside “wait and see” attitude towards active treatment, thanks to the continuous improvement of new therapeutic options. In addition to the use of intravenous (IV) thrombolysis in emergent large vessel occlusion (ELVO), endovascular therapy (EVT) has proven to be very efficient in selected acute stroke patients. The indications for EVT have progressed from the era of thrombolysis to individual patient profiling. Recently, several indication parameters, e.g., “treatment time window” or “more distal vessel occlusion,” are under debate for adjustment. In this article, we review the imaging strategies in acute stroke and discuss several EVT indication dogmas, which are subject to change.

Abstract Background Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) affects predominantly the cervical and renal arteries and may cause the classical angiographic pattern of string-of-beads. The diagnosis is increasing with the advances of imaging techniques. Case Report A 37-year-old man presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage due to a dissecting aneurysm of the vertebral artery was treated by angioplasty with stent, with good outcome. All of the cervical and renal arteries were diseased and showed dysplasia and/or ectasias. Conclusions There are no guidelines or protocols to treat patients with FMD.

Retrograde type A aortic dissection (RTAD) following thoracic endovascular aortic repair is a devastating complication associated with high mortality rates. In particular, a deployed endograft in a bird-beak formation in an acute curve of the aortic arch can induce injury to the fragile aortic wall, with the subsequent development of RTAD. Here, we describe an extremely rare case of RTAD caused by fracture of the bare spring of the thoracic endograft for type A aortic dissection.

Abstract Background Intercostal artery aneurysms are rare vascular abnormalities that are typically diagnosed following rupture in patients with predisposing conditions. Our report is the first to document a patient with unruptured intercostal artery aneurysms in the absence of any associated disease. Case presentation A 70-year-old male with prostatic adenocarcinoma was incidentally discovered to have multiple unruptured aneurysms of his intercostal arteries. Three of the aneurysms were embolized utilizing microcoils and glue. At six-month follow-up the patient remained asymptomatic. Conclusion We demonstrate successful endovascular management of a unique case of multiple idiopathic unruptured intercostal artery aneurysms. Appropriate diagnosis and prompt treatment of these rare vascular lesions is essential in preventing the potentially catastrophic consequences of rupture.

Background and Objectives: Indications for the endovascular treatment of femoropopliteal lesions have steadily increased over the past decade. Accordingly, the number of devices has also increased, but the choice of the best endovascular treatment remains to be defined. Many devices are now available for physicians. However, in order to obtain a high success rate, it is necessary to respect an algorithm whose choice of device is only one step in the treatment. Materials and Methods: The first step is, therefore, to define the approach according to the lesion to be treated. Anterograde approaches (femoral, radial, or humeral) are distinguished from retrograde approaches depending on the patient’s anatomy and surgical history. Secondarily, the lesion will be crossed intraluminally or subintimally using a catheter or an angioplasty balloon. The third step corresponds to the preparation of the artery, which is essential before the implantation of the device. It has a crucial role in reducing the rate of restenosis. Several tools are available and are chosen according to the lesion requiring treatment (stenosis, occlusion). Among them, we find the angioplasty balloon, the atherectomy probes, or intravascular lithotripsy. Finally, the last step corresponds to the choice of the device to be implanted. This is also based on the nature of the lesion, which is considered short, up to 15 cm and complex beyond that. The choice of device will be between bare stents, covered stents, drug-coated balloons, and drug-eluting stents. Currently, drug-eluting stents appear to be the treatment of choice for short lesions, and active devices seem to be the preferred treatment for more complex lesions, although there is a lack of data. Results: In case of failure to cross the lesion, the retrograde approach is a safe and effective alternative. Balloon angioplasty currently remains the reference method for the preparation of the artery, the aim of which is to ensure the intraoperative technical success of the treatment (residual stenosis < 30%), to limit the risk of dissection and, finally, to limit the occurrence of restenosis. Concerning the treatment, the drug-eluting devices seem to present the best results, whether for simple or complex lesions. Conclusions: Endovascular treatment for femoropopliteal lesions needs to be considered upstream of the intervention in order to anticipate the treatment and the choice of devices for each stage.

Abstract In the past, treatment of visceral artery aneurysms (VAAs) was exclusively surgical. These aneurysms were rarely diagnosed in elective or emergency cases. Development of imaging techniques and endovascular procedures has changed the history of the therapeutic options for this pathology. Endovascular management of VAAs has arisen to advances in endovascular techniques and has achieved high efficacy.

Age is an independent risk factor for mortality after both elective open surgical repair (OSR) and endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). As a result of an ageing population, and the less invasive nature of EVAR, the number of patients over 80 years (octogenarians) being treated is increasing. The mortality and morbidity following aneurysm surgery are increased for octogenarians. However, the mortality for octogenarians who have either low or high peri-operative risks remains unclear. The aim of this study was to provide peri-operative outcomes of octogenarians vs. non-octogenarians after OSR and EVAR for intact aneurysms, including separate subanalyses for elective and urgent intact repair, based on a nationwide cohort. Furthermore, the influence of comorbidities on peri-operative mortality was examined. All patients registered in the Dutch Surgical Aneurysm Audit (DSAA) undergoing intact AAA repair between 2013 and 2018, were included. Patient characteristics and peri-operative outcomes (peri-operative mortality, and major complications) of octogenarians vs. non-octogenarians for both OSR and EVAR were compared using descriptive statistics. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to examine whether age and the presence of cardiac, pulmonary, or renal comorbidities were associated with mortality. This study included 12 054 EVAR patients (3 015 octogenarians), and 3 815 OSR patients (425 octogenarians). Octogenarians in both the EVAR and OSR treatment groups were more often female and had more comorbidities. In both treatment groups, octogenarians had significantly higher mortality rates following intact repair as well as higher major complication rates. Mortality rates of octogenarians were 1.9% after EVAR and 11.8% after OSR. Age ≥ 80 and presence of cardiac, pulmonary, and renal comorbidities were associated with mortality after EVAR and OSR. Because of the high peri-operative mortality rates of octogenarians, awareness of the presence of comorbidities is essential in the decision making process before offering aneurysm repair to this cohort, especially when OSR is considered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesenteric ischaemia is a condition that may be very severe and potentially lethal particularly in the acute presentation. Early treatment is crucial. We present four consecutive cases managed by our team with thrombosis or dissection or aneurysm of the superior mesenteric artery and the celiac trunk reviewing indications and treatment implemented. Multiple successful endovascular procedures were used in all cases avoiding progression to lethal consequences. None of the patients required an open surgical procedure. Therefore, endovascular procedures are feasible in these patients avoiding intestinal necrosis as well as the need for open surgeries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Analyzing stroke thrombi has proven to be valuable in prognostication and risk stratification of stroke etiology, reperfusion success and outcomes. The aim of this study was to test if the baseline appearance of the proximal thrombus on digital subtraction angiography (DSA) can predict these parameters in acute ischemic stroke patients treated with mechanical thrombectomy. Methods: The appearance of the most proximal part of the thrombus was determined based on DSA. Thrombus perviousness, density, and histology were measured beforehand as described previously. Baseline, technical, and outcome variables were compared using the χ2-test, analysis of variance and the Kruskal-Wallis test. Results: A total of 144 stroke patients with M1 and M2 occlusions could be included in this present study. Of the patients 60.4% had a cutoff, 27.1% a tapered, and 12.5% a meniscus/tram-track appearance of the thrombus on baseline DSA. The number of maneuvers was higher in the cutoff cohort (P = 0.003). Age (P = 0.777), female sex (P = 0.936), administration of intravenous thrombolysis (P = 0.364), percentage of M1 occlusions (P = 0.194), Alberta Stroke Program early computed tomography score (ASPECTS, P = 0.256), usage of balloon guide catheters (P = 0.367), general anesthesia (P = 0.184), procedure time (P = 0.214) and symptom onset to groin puncture time (P = 0.114) did not significantly differ. Alongside a lower National Institutes of Health scale (NIHSS) score on admission (P = 0.085), good functional outcome was favorable for the meniscus/tram-track cohort (P = 0.030). Stroke etiology according to the trial of Org 10172 in acute stroke treatment (TOAST) criteria as well as thrombus perviousness, density, and histology showed no association with the thrombus appearance. Conclusion: Baseline cut off thrombus appearance predicts a higher number of thrombectomy maneuvers. In day to day practice this may prepare the neurointerventionalist for a more challenging endovascular procedure ahead. Stroke etiology, clinical outcomes and thrombus-specific characteristics did not show any associations with the thrombus appearance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Colorectal surgery has benefited from advances in precision medicine such as total mesorectal resection, and recently, mesocolon resection, fluorescent perfusion imaging, and fluorescent node mapping. However, these advances fail to address the variable quality of mesocolon dissection and the directed extent of vascular dissection (including high ligation) or pre-resection anastomotic perfusion mapping, thereby impacting anastomotic leaks. We propose a new paradigm of precision image-directed colorectal surgery involving 3D preoperative resection modeling and intraoperative fluoroscopic and fluorescence vascular imaging which better defines optimal dissection planes and vascular vs. anatomy-based resection lines according to our hypothesis. Methods: Six pigs had preoperative CT with vascular 3D reconstruction allowing for the preoperative planning of vascular-based dissection. Laparoscopic surgery was performed in a hybrid operating room (OR). Superselective arterial catheterization was performed in branches of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) or the inferior mesenteric artery (IMA). Intraoperative boluses of 0.1 mg/kg or a continuous infusion of indocyanine green (ICG) (0.01 mg/mL) were administered to guide fluorescent-based sigmoid and ileocecal resections. Fluorescence was assessed using proprietary software at several regions of interest (ROI) in the right and left colon. Results: The approach was feasible and safe. Selective catheterization took an average of 43 min. Both bolus and continuous perfusion clearly marked pre-identified vessels (arteries/veins) and the target colon segment, facilitating precise resections based on the visible vascular anatomy. Quantitative software analysis indicated the optimal resection margin for each ROI. Conclusion: Intra-arterial fluorescent mapping allows visualization of major vascular structures and segmental colonic perfusion. This may help to prevent any inadvertent injury to major vascular structures and to precisely determine perfusion-based resection planes and margins. This could enable tailoring of the amount of colon resected, ensure good anastomotic perfusion, and improve oncological outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Early vascular complications following pancreatic transplantation are not uncommon (3%–8%). Typically, cross‐sectional imaging is requested in response to clinical change. We instituted a change in protocol to request imaging pre‐emptively to identify patients with thrombotic complications. Methods: In 2013, protocol computer tomography angiography (CTA) at days 3–5 and day 10 following pancreas transplantation was introduced. A retrospective analysis of all pancreas transplants performed at our institution from January 2001 to May 2019 was undertaken. Results: A total of 115 patients received pancreas transplants during this time period. A total of 78 received pancreas transplant without routine CTA and 37 patients with the new protocol. Following the change in protocol, we detected a high number of subclinical thromboses (41.7%). There was a significant decrease in invasive intervention for thrombosis (78.6% before vs 30.8% after, p =.02), and graft survival was significantly higher (61.5% before vs 86.1% after, p =.04). There was also a significant reduction in the number of graft failures (all‐cause) where thrombosis was present (23.4% before vs 5.6% after, p =.02). Patient survival was unaffected (p =.48). Conclusions: Implementation of early protocol CTA identifies a large number of patients with subclinical graft thromboses that are more amenable to conservative management and significantly reduces the requirement for invasive intervention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past, treatment of visceral artery aneurysms (VAAs) was exclusively surgical. These aneurysms were rarely diagnosed in elective or emergency cases. Development of imaging techniques and endovascular procedures has changed the history of the therapeutic options for this pathology. Endovascular management of VAAs has arisen to advances in endovascular techniques and has achieved high efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: As aneurysm‐related events and rupture is not eliminated, postoperative lifelong surveillance is mandatory after endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR). For surveillance colored Doppler ultrasound (CDUS) is a standard method of noninvasive evaluation having the advantages of availability, cost‐effectiveness, and lack of nephrotoxicity and radiation. We evaluated CDUS for primary surveillance tool after elective EVAR by comparing with computerized tomography. Methods: Between January 2018 and March 2020, 84 consecutive post‐EVAR patients were evaluated. First, CDUS was performed by two Doppler operators from the Radiology Department and then computed tomographic angiography (CTA) was performed. The operators were blind to CTA reports. A reporting protocol was organized for endoleak detection and largest aneurysm diameter. Results: Among 84 patients, there were 11 detected endoleaks (13.1%) with CTA and seven of them was detected with CDUS (r =.884, p <.001). All Type I and III endoleaks were detected perfectly. There is an insufficiency in detecting low flow by CDUS. Eliminating this frailty, there was a strong correlation of aneurysm sac diameter measurement between CTA and CDUS (r =.777, p <.001). The sensitivity and specificity of CDUS was 63.6% and 100%, respectively. The accuracy was 95.2%. Positive and negative predictive values were 100% and 94.8%. Bland–Altman analysis and linear regression analysis showed no proportional bias (mean difference of 1.5 ± 2.2 mm, p =.233). Conclusions: For surveillance, CDUS promises accurate results without missing any potential complication requiring intervention as Type I or III endoleak. Lack of detecting Type II endoleaks may be negligible as sac enlargement was the key for reintervention in this situation and CDUS has a remarkably high correlation with CTA in sac diameter measurement. CDUS may be a primary surveillance tool for EVAR and CTA will be reserved in case of aneurysm sac enlargement, detection of an endoleak, inadequate CDUS, or in case of unexplained abdominal symptomatology. By this way we not only avoid ionizing radiation and nephrotoxic agents, but also achieve cost saving issue also. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a significant variability in the reported outcomes following endovascular embolization of arterial pseudoaneurysms in pancreatitis. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the efficacy of endovascular embolization of pancreatitis-related pseudoaneurysms. Searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and SCOPUS databases were performed through July 1, 2019 in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. All studies with ≥10 patients reporting technical success, clinical success, complications, and mortality were included. Generalized linear mixed method with random effects model was used for assessing pooled incidence rates and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). A total of 29 studies (n = 840 with 638 pseudoaneurysms) were included. The pooled incidence rates of pseudoaneurysms in acute and chronic pancreatitis were 0.05% and 0.03%, respectively (odds ratio, 0.91, 95% CI-0.24–3.43). The most common site of pseudoaneurysm was splenic artery (37.7%). The most common embolization agent was coil (n = 415). The follow up period was 54.7 months (range, 21 days to 40.5 months). Pooled technical success rate was 97% (95% CI-92-99%, I2 83%). Clinical success rates at ≤3 months, 3–12 months, and >12 months were 82% (95% CI-70-90%, I2 42%), 86% (95% CI-75-92%, I2 44%), and 88% (95% CI-83-91%, I2 0%), respectively. There was no significant difference in the technical or clinical success between acute and chronic pancreatitis on subgroup analysis. Mortality was lower in chronic pancreatitis (OR 4.27 (95% CI 1.35–13.53, I2 0%)). Splenic infarction was the most common complication (n = 47). Endovascular embolization is associated with a high technical and clinical success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endovascular repair can be an alternative to conventional surgery for arch and thoracoabdominal aneurysms; however, it has the limits of available stent-grafts in anatomy. We present the case of an 87-year-old woman who had dual aneurysms in the arch and thoracoabdominal regions. We considered that traditional open surgery was of extremely high risk, because she was an octogenarian and had multiple comorbidities. We successfully treated the aortic arch aneurysm and the thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysm using endovascular stent-grafts in a high-risk patient who was a poor candidate for the conventional open surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) has become an effective and reliable therapy. Although EVAR is less invasive than open surgery, it possesses various disadvantages. Graft limb occlusion is an important complication of EVAR and the third most common reason for readmission after EVAR. In this report, we present a late complication of EVAR due to graft migration resulting in severe stenosis of the external iliac artery and recurrent distal arterial thrombosis. A 60-year-old male patient was admitted with acute-onset left leg pain. His medical history revealed EVAR treatment two years previously. During the last two months, he developed symptoms of claudication. Imaging studies revealed that the left superficial femoral artery was obstructed by thrombi, and the left leg of EVAR graft was positioned close to the internal iliac artery causing severe ostial stenosis in the external iliac artery. Also, a Type Ib endoleak was detected. Due to critical lower extremity ischemia, emergency embolectomy was performed. Three days later, a saphenous femorotibial bypass was performed for claudication and the leg of the EVAR graft was extended simultaneously. In conclusion, EVAR has advantages over open repair. Nevertheless, it is associated with a high rate of complications requiring reintervention. Therefore, open surgery should be the first choice in challenging cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Infrapopliteal peripheral vascular interventions (PVIs) for claudication are still performed in the USA. This study aimed to evaluate whether infrapopliteal PVI is associated with worse long term outcomes than isolated femoropopliteal PVI for treatment of claudication., Methods: A retrospective analysis of fee for service claims in a national administrative database was conducted using 100% of the Medicare fee for service claims between 2017 and 2019 to capture all Medicare beneficiaries who underwent an index infra-inguinal PVI for claudication. Hierarchical Cox proportional hazards models were performed to assess the association of infrapopliteal PVI with conversion to chronic limb threatening ischaemia (CLTI), repeat PVI, and major amputation., Results: In total, 36 147 patients (41.1% female; 89.7% age ≥ 65 years; 79.0% non-Hispanic White ethnicity) underwent an index PVI for claudication, of whom 32.6% (n = 11 790) received an infrapopliteal PVI. Of these, 61.4% (n = 7 245) received a concomitant femoropopliteal PVI and 38.6% (n = 4 545) received an isolated infrapopliteal PVI. The median follow up time was 3.5 years (interquartile range 2.7, 4.3). Patients receiving infrapopliteal PVI had a higher three year cumulative incidence of conversion to CLTI (26.0%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 24.9 - 27.2% vs. 19.9%; 95% CI 19.1 - 20.7%), repeat PVI (56.0%; 95% CI 54.8 - 57.3% vs. 45.7%; 95% CI 44.9 - 46.6%), and major amputation (2.2%; 95% CI 1.8 - 2.6% vs. 1.3%; 95% CI 1.1 - 1.5%) compared with patients receiving isolated femoropopliteal PVI. After adjusting for patient and physician level characteristics, the risk of conversion to CLTI (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 1.31, 95% CI 1.23 - 1.39), repeat PVI (aHR 1.12, 95% CI 1.05 - 1.20), and major amputation (aHR 1.72, 95% CI 1.42 - 2.07) remained significantly higher for patients receiving infrapopliteal PVI. An increasing number of infrapopliteal vessels treated during the index intervention was associated with increasingly poor outcomes (p < .001 for trend)., Conclusion: Infrapopliteal PVI for claudication is associated with worse long term outcomes relative to isolated femoropopliteal PVI., (Copyright © 2024 European Society for Vascular Surgery. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD) is a noninflammatory arterial diseases that affects predominantly women. Multiple studies have demonstrated an increased prevalence of FMD in patients who experience carotid or vertebral artery dissection (VAD). This case report presents a 57-year-old female who presented with a headache and was diagnosed with partially thrombosed giant aneurysm of vertebral artery. This aneurysm was successfully treated with flow-diverter and coil, but new onset rupture of vertebral artery was detected two weeks later, leading to internal trapping. This case report underscores the need for awareness and understanding of treatment of dissection and aneurysm in patient who is suspected FMD.

Patients with no-option chronic limb-threatening ischemia are not candidates for conventional revascularization options and will inevitably require major amputation. Deep venous arterialization (DVA) is a potential option for these patients. A complete endovascular system to perform DVA has recently received great acclaim and US Foor and Drug Administration approval. However, patients with severe tibial medial calcinosis such as those with diabetes or renal failure may not be candidates for this because most endovascular needles cannot penetrate severe calcium. Here we describe a novel hybrid approach to DVA that provided technical success in three patients with end-stage renal disease and severe medial calcinosis., Competing Interests: None., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Objective: Stents have been widely used for coil embolization for intracranial aneurysms. Few studies have analyzed the risk factors of recanalization through long-term follow-up observation of only stent-assisted coiling. We analyzed the risk factors for recanalization through long-term observations., Methods: A total number of 399 unruptured aneurysms treated by stent-assisted coil embolization between 2003 and 2016 in a single institution were analyzed for determining the factors associated with recanalization including the patient characteristics, aneurysms, and procedural variables. All patients underwent angiographic follow-up with digital subtraction angiography or magnetic resonance angiography at 24 months or more following the procedure., Results: Recanalization occurred in 8%. The mean time for the recanalization was 21.1 ± 14.0 months (range, 5-51 months). The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis indicated areas under the curve for a maximum aneurysm size of 0.773 (cut-off, 6.415 mm). Multivariate analysis revealed that the maximum aneurysm size and parent artery curvature at which the aneurysm developed were significantly associated with recanalization. In parent artery curvature, the bifurcation group (OR, 9.02; 95% CI, 2.53-32.13; p  = 0.001) and the convex group (OR, 3.68; 95% CI, 1.17-11.50; p  = 0.025) were independent predictors of recanalization compared with the straight group., Conclusion: The maximum aneurysm size and parent artery curvature are risk factors associated with recanalization in stent-assisted coil embolization., Competing Interests: The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Won, Kim, Ban and Kwon.)

A single center had a collaborative, multidisciplinary review to determine how to best implement new acute ischemic stroke trials involving large vessel occlusions. A flow diagram process map was created for clinical decision support. Patients were divided into four groups based upon size of infarct and timing of presentation. The process map, available in the electronic health record (EHR) for clinicians to reference, guides the selection of patients for endovascular therapy with neuroimaging. In addition, the process map offers guidance for discussions with families and patients experiencing large vessel occlusions with both small and large core infarcts. This manuscript describes the process of creating the process map through a multidisciplinary review and discussion, with points of controversy and how these were addressed., Competing Interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article., (© The Author(s) 2023.)

Vascular injuries following anterior shoulder dislocations are rare, with an estimated incidence of 1-2%. The formation of an axillary artery pseudoaneurysm secondary to vascular trauma is a possible late complication and frequently underdiagnosed since it may remain asymptomatic for many years. A rupture of a pseudoaneurysm may occur either from the dislocation itself or after forceful reduction attempts. A ruptured pseudoaneurysm of the axillary artery is a medical emergency and may result in significative upper-limb morbidity or even patient mortality. Nowadays, endovascular techniques have progressively gained ground for the treatment of such lesion, especially in an emergency context. In the present article, the authors present the case of a 77-years-old male patient with a rupture of a pseudoaneurysm of the left axillary artery after repeated forceful reductions of an anterior glenohumeral dislocation and its treatment with percutaneous endovascular stenting.

Abstract Endovascular aneurysm repair is currently the most frequently treatment modality for infrarenal aortic aneurysms. Endoleaks are the most common cause of reintervention after endovascular aneurysm repair. It is often unclear which type of endoleak is the correct diagnose, making the treatment decision difficult. We report the case of a 72-year-old man with an endoleak two years after endovascular aneurysm repair. Images suggested a type III endoleak, but this was not confirmed by contrast aortography. We proceeded with the investigation using aortography with carbon dioxide and observed a type IA endoleak. This was successfully treated by implantation of a proximal cuff. A review of the literature shows that the role of carbon dioxide in endoleak management is still unclear. We present a case in which carbon dioxide was essential to both diagnosis and therapeutic decision-making in a type IA endoleak.

Carotid cavernous fistulas (CCFs) are abnormal connections between the cavernous sinus and the internal and/or external carotid artery. Endovascular therapy is the gold standard treatment. In the current retrospective single-center study we report detailed dosimetrics of all patients with CCFs treated by endovascular coil embolization between January 2012 and August 2021. Procedural and dosimetric data were compared between direct and indirect fistulas according to Barrow et al., and different DSA protocol groups. The local diagnostic reference level (DRL) was defined as the 3rd quartile of the dose distribution. In total, thirty patients met the study criteria. The local DRL was 376.2 Gy cm2. The procedural dose area product (DAP) (p = 0.03) and the number of implanted coils (p = 0.02) were significantly lower in direct fistulas. The median values for fluoroscopy time (FT) (p = 0.08) and number of DSA acquisitions (p = 0.84) were not significantly different between groups. There was a significantly positive correlation between DAP and FT (p = 0.003). The application of a dedicated low-dose protocol yielded a 32.6% DAP reduction. In conclusion, this study provides novel DRLs for endovascular CCF treatment using detachable coils. The data presented in this work might be used to establish new specific DRLs.

Turner syndrome, also described as 45, X, may present with most serious cardiovascular anomalies including risk of aortic dissection and rupture. In emergency situation, management for aortic dissection with complicated anatomy accompanying vascular anomaly is challenging. Here, we report a rare case of ruptured type B aortic dissection with aberrant subclavian artery and partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection in a Turner syndrome. Through right carotid-subclavian artery bypass and thoracic endovascular aortic repair, successful hybrid endovascular management correlated with a favorable result in this emergency situation.

Purpose Wide-neck aneurysms (WNAs) associated with a dilated parent artery (PA) are not uncommon morphological abnormalities and usually cause inappropriate wall apposition and incomplete neck coverage of a tubular stent in stent-assisted coiling of aneurysms. We aimed to introduce a fusiform-shaped stent (FSS) and test its effectiveness in treating intracranial WNAs associated with a dilated PA using a three-dimensional (3D) model. Materials and Methods Two FSS types were designed with the middle one-third segment dilated by 10% (FSS10) and 20% (FSS20) and were compared with the tubular-shaped stent (TSS). A patient-specific 3D WNA model was prototyped and produced, and in vitro stent placement was performed. Angiographic images of the three stent types were analyzed and compared using predetermined parameters. Results The stent lumens were significantly larger in FSS10 and FSS20 than in TSS in the middle segments (P=0.046), particularly FSS20 (P=0.018). The non-covered area at the ostium tended to be smaller in FSS10 and FSS20 than in TSS, but the difference was not significant (P>0.05). The stent length was significantly longer in FSS10 and FSS20 than in TSS. The stent cell size was significantly larger in FSS than in TSS. Conclusion Better vessel wall apposition and aneurysmal neck coverage was observed for FSS than for TSS. No significant difference was observed between FSS10 and FSS20.

Abstract Introduction The incidence of intracranial aneurysms in the pediatric population is low, and endovascular treatment is becoming a safe and minimally invasive treatment option. In the present study, the occurrence of special features of cerebral aneurysm in children, in comparison to adults, is also described. Case Report A 3-month-old female infant presented with progressive proptosis and divergent strabismus at the right eye, in addition to inconsolable crying. Cerebral resonance, angiotomography and angiography exams demonstrated angiodysplasia in the right internal carotid artery with two large paraclinoid dissecting aneurysms with wide neck. The right internal carotid artery was occluded with coils by endovascular approach, without detriment to the perfusion of the ipsilateral hemisphere and without neurological deficits. The patient achieved good recovery, and a late control angiotomography confirmed the exclusion of the aneurysms. Conclusion Parent artery sacrifice via endovascular approach is an effective therapeutic option, but a long-term follow-up is necessary to avoid recurrence and bleeding.

Background & Objective: Endovascular treatment is the widely accepted treatment for patients with anterior circulation stroke within 6 hours of onset of stroke. We aimed to evaluate the advantages of endovascular treatment compared to standard medical treatment in treating patients with anterior circulation stroke beyond the 6-hour therapeutic window. Methods: We reviewed the literature concerning endovascular treatment versus medical treatment beyond the 6-hour therapeutic window. Using random-effects meta-analysis, we evaluated the following outcomes: modified Rankin scale in the three-month follow-up [excellent outcome (mRS≤1), functional independence (mRS≤2), moderate outcome(mRS≤3)], recanalization rate at 24 hours, mortality at 90 days or in-hospital, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, parenchymal hematoma type 2 and hemorrhagic infarction 1. Results: Four studies including 642 patients were evaluated. Endovascular treatment was associated with higher odds of excellent outcome (OR 2.55; 95% CI 1.48 to 4.41,), functional independence (OR 3.64; 95% CI 2.43 to 5.45), moderate outcome (OR 2.70; 95% CI 1.95-3.74) and recanalization rate at 24 hours (OR 8.81; 95%CI 2.81 to 27.69) compared to MT. No difference in the rates of mortality, symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, parenchymal hematoma type 2 or hemorrhagic infarction 1 was found between the 2 groups. Studies using strict perfusion imaging inclusion selection showed better moderate outcome in comparison to the studies without perfusion imaging inclusion selection (P <0.012). Conclusion: Our study highlights the superiority of endovascular treatment over standard medical treatment alone for treating patients with anterior circulation stroke beyond 6 hours since stroke onset, although more studies are required for further investigation. Standard of strict selection for eligible patients before endovascular treatment should be based on DAWN or DEFFUSE 3 inclusion criteria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Endovascular dural venous sinus stenting (DVSS) has emerged as a safe and effective therapy for idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) in patients with transverse-sinus stenosis associated with an elevated mean pressure gradient (MPG). The typical antegrade approach, jugular to sigmoid to transverse, is not always technically feasible due to the degree of stenosis and other anatomic factors. To this point, there has been no reported cases of contralateral DVSS. We describe four cases of DVSS from a contralateral transverse-sigmoid sinus approach. Methods: We describe 4 patients presenting with symptoms of IIH between 2019 and 2020 who we treated with contralateral transverse-sigmoid sinus stenting. Cases were reviewed for clinical data including initial presenting symptoms, devices used, other attempted IIH treatments, and follow up symptoms. Results: Four female patients were identified and treated under general endotracheal anesthesia. Stenoses measured 72%, 78%, 67%, and 70% with MPGs across the transverse-sigmoid sinus of 19, 16, 9 and 13 mmHg, respectively. Post-stenting MPGs were 1, 0, 1 and 1 mmHg, respectively. Three patients had complete resolution of symptoms and 1 had partial resolution. No complications occurred. Conclusions: This case series demonstrates successful transverse-sigmoid sinus stenting from the contralateral dural sinus and provides an alternative approach to DVSS in patients with IIH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fibromuscular dysplasia affects generally renal artery, causing renovascular hypertension. The most classical angiographic pattern, string-of-beads, can be found in cervical and more rarely in other arteries. With the advance of endovascular procedures techniques, the number of open surgeries is decreasing, and complications related to the selective catheterization of diseased vessels are increasing.Case Report: A 37-year-old man presenting with subarachnoid hemorrhage was submitted to angioplasty for dissecting aneurysms of vertebral artery with a good outcome. Several arteries were angiographically diagnosed with the dysplasia (renal, carotid, femoral), and some complications like stenosis, dissection, arteriovenous fistula, and dissecting aneurysm occurred in sequence.Conclusions: FMD of cervical arteries is usually asymptomatic. There are no guidelines or protocols to cervical FMD treatment, being indicated only for the complications. Because of the vessels fragility, a several spontaneous or post endovascular procedure complications can be disastrous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To review the existing literature on large animal models of central venous thrombosis (CVT) and to evaluate its relevance in regard to the development and testing of dedicated therapeutics applicable to humans. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed and Embase. Articles describing an in vivo experimental protocol of CVT in large animals, involving the iliac vein and/or the vena cava and/or the brachiocephalic vein, were included. The primary aim of the study, animal characteristics, experimental protocol, and thrombus evaluation were recorded. Thirty-eight papers describing more than 30 different protocols were included. Animals used were pigs (53%), dogs (21%), monkeys (24%), and cattle (3%). The median number of animals per study was 12. Animal sex, strain, and weight were missing in 18 studies (47%), seven studies (18%), and eight studies (21%), respectively. CVT was always induced by venous stasis: solely (55%), or in addition to hypercoagulability (37%) or endothelial damage (10%). The size of the vessel used for thrombus creation was measured in four studies (10%). Unexpected animal death occurred in nine studies (24%), ranging from 3% to 37% of the animals. Twenty-two studies (58%) in the acute phase and 31 studies in the chronic phase (82%) evaluated the presence or absence of the thrombus created, and its occlusive characteristic was reported, respectively, in five and 17 studies. Histological examination was performed in 24 studies (63%) with comparison to human thrombus in one study. This review showed advantages and weaknesses of the existing large animal models of CVT. Future models should insist on more rigour and consistency in reporting animal characteristics, as well as evaluating and comparing the thrombus created to human thrombus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hepatic artery thrombosis (HAT) following liver transplantation is a serious complication that may lead to graft loss and ultimately death. Retransplantation and surgical recanalization for HAT have traditionally been the predominant methods of treatment. However, with the development of endovascular therapies, including percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, thrombolysis, and stent insertion, these methods are now mainly used because they allow prompt management. Methods: From January 2005 to December 2018, 756 patients underwent liver transplantation at our institution, and 14 of those patients developed early HAT. All patients underwent endovascular arteriography immediately after the diagnosis of thrombosis. We retrospectively reviewed the 14 patients with HAT. Results: Hepatic artery thrombosis following liver transplantation occurred in 14 patients (1.9%) within 1 month after transplantation. The final success rate of radiological intervention was 71.4% (n = 10). Of the four patients in whom intravenous procedures failed, two ultimately underwent retransplantation and one patient underwent surgical revision of the hepatic artery. Bleeding and rebound thrombosis after the intervention occurred in three patients (21.4%) and four patients (28.6%), respectively. Conclusion: Endovascular procedures can be safe and provide prompt recovery in early HAT patients following liver transplantation to prevent graft loss and patient mortality despite the presence of hemorrhage and rebound thrombosis. Immediate endovascular procedure after the end of the transplantation is also necessary in intraoperatively developed HAT instead of several trials of arterial anastomoses to revascularization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Arteriovenous fistula is the definitive vascular access for patients on long‐term haemodialysis. The aim of this study is to present the techniques and results of the Endovascular Treatment System that we have developed for managing the occluded native arteriovenous fistula. Methods: The current study is a retrospective chart review on all patients who presented with an occluded native arteriovenous fistula and underwent attempted recanalization between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2014. Results: A total of 130 patients were included in the study. Post‐intervention primary access patency was 83.8% at 6 months, 78.7% at 12 months, 64.6% at 2 years and 59.6% at 3 years. Post‐intervention assisted access patency in fistulas‐in‐use was 86.5% at 6 months, 81% at 12 months, 66.8% at 2 years and 61.2% at 3 years. Post‐intervention secondary patency for all cases was 84.7% at 6 months, 80.2% at 12 months, 66.1% at 2 years and 62% at 3 years. Post‐intervention secondary patency in fistula‐in‐use was 91.1% at 6 months, 90% at 12 months, 85% at 2 years and 74.6% at 3 years. Access survival nor patency differed significantly when incisional thrombectomy was compared to angioplasty with or without stenting with access survival of 91.2% and 92.5% at 12 months and access patency of 82.9% and 89.7% at 12 months (P = 0.834 and P = 0.898, respectively). Conclusions: In autologous arteriovenous thrombosed fistulae, the use of endovascular techniques to revive the access is a viable and safe technique to employ in most cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Female patients undergoing endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) for infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysms present with more challenging anatomy and historically have worse outcomes compared with men. The Ovation Abdominal Stent Graft platform (Endologix, Irving, Calif) contains a polymer-filled proximal sealing ring and has a low-profile delivery system, potentially beneficial in female patients. We therefore investigated differences in long-term outcomes between men and women treated with this device. We used data collected prospectively in the Effectiveness of Custom Seal with Ovation: Review of the Evidence (ENCORE) database, comprising five trials and the European Post-Market Registry. Anatomic characteristics of the proximal aneurysm neck and iliac arteries were compared between male and female patients. Outcomes were 5-year freedom from type IA and type I/III endoleaks, abdominal aortic aneurysm-related reinterventions, and overall survival. We used Kaplan-Meier analysis to estimate survival proportions and tested univariate differences in survival using log-rank tests. Cox proportional hazards modeling was used to adjust for baseline differences. We identified 1045 (81%) male and 251 (19%) female patients undergoing EVAR. Female patients were older (mean age, 75 ± 8.4 years vs 73 ± 8.1 years; P <.006). Aneurysm diameter (52 ± 7.5 mm vs 55 ± 9.2 mm; P <.001) and proximal neck diameter (21 ± 3.3 mm vs 23 ± 2.9 mm; P <.001) were smaller in female patients, but adjusted for body surface area, female patients had relatively larger aneurysms and aneurysm necks. Furthermore, female patients presented with shorter proximal necks, smaller iliac artery diameters, more angulated necks, and higher rates of reverse-tapered necks. Five-year freedom from type IA endoleak was similar between men and women (97% vs 96%; P =.38), as was freedom from type I/III endoleaks (91% vs 94%; P =.37) and reinterventions (91% vs 93%; P =.67). Five-year survival was 81% for female patients, similar to the 79% in male patients (P =.55), with one aneurysm-related death in female patients (0.4%) and five in male patients (0.8%; P =.76). Risk-adjusted analyses showed no association between sex and type IA endoleak (hazard ratio [HR], 1.4; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.6-3.1; P =.41), type I/III endoleak (HR, 1.4; 95% CI, 0.7-2.8; P =.33), reintervention (HR, 1.0; 95% CI, 0.6-2.0; P =.77), and overall mortality (HR, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.4-1.1; P =.14). Female patients undergoing EVAR with the Ovation platform presented with substantially more adverse proximal neck characteristics. Despite these differences, 5-year freedom from endoleaks and overall survival did not differ between sexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]