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Heart transplantation is the gold-standard in the treatment of terminal heart failure. The shortage of donor hearts represents the major obstacle in patient care and necessitates the creation of waiting lists and allocation algorithms. The Transplantation Act regulates donor heart allocation according to the urgency and the prospects of success. Donor hearts can be implanted following the classical biatrial or the modern bicaval valve implantation technique with a slightly lower spectrum of complications. Modern mechanical perfusion systems enable extended transport times. After heart transplantation rejection reactions must be controlled by an individually adjusted immunosuppression to guarantee long-term survival with as few complications as possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freshwater pearl farming is an emerging sector of aquaculture in Bangladesh which plays a growing role at major jewelry markets. With some improved techniques, high quality image or designer pearls are now produced from freshwater mussels Lamellidens marginalis. Yet it is difficult to reach in conclusion as the quantities produced, culture techniques used, and the upgrading of the existing culture technique are not well documented. Furthermore, many obstacles such as proper dissemination of culture technologies among the interested peoples, optimization of the culture environment and culture methods, standardization of breeding protocol and so on need to be addressed by the scientific community. This review article reports for the first time about the status of freshwater pearl culture in Bangladesh highlighting the fundamentals of pearl production, culture techniques used in farms, challenges, and prospects for upgradation of current culture principles in Bangladesh.

Copyright of Zeitschrift für Rheumatologie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

BackgroundConduction disturbances demanding permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) remain a common complication after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Optimization of the implantation depth (ID) by introducing the cusp-overlap projection (COP) technique led to a reduced rate of PPI when self-expanding valves were used.ObjectivesThe aim of the present study was to determine if using the novel COP view is applicable for all types of TAVR prosthesis and results in a higher ID and reduced incidence of new conduction disturbances and PPI.MethodsIn this prospective case-control study 586 consecutive patients undergoing TAVR with either balloon-expandable Edwards SAPIEN S3 (n = 280; 47.8%), or mechanically expandable Boston LOTUS Edge heart valve prostheses (n = 306; 52.2%) were included. ID as well as rates of periprocedural PPI and left bundle branch block (LBBB) were compared between the conventional three-cusp coplanar (TCC) projection and the COP view for implantation.ResultsOf 586 patients, 282 (48.1%) underwent TAVR using COP, whereas in 304 patients (51.9%) the TCC view was applied. Using COP a significantly higher ID was achieved in Edwards SAPIEN S3 TAVR procedures (ID mean difference −1.0 mm, 95%−CI −1.9 to −0.1 mm; P = 0.029), whereas the final platform position did not differ significantly between both techniques when a Boston LOTUS Edge valve was used (ID mean difference −0.1 mm, 95%-CI −1.1 to +0.9 mm; P = 0.890). In Edwards SAPIEN S3 valves, higher ID was associated with a numerically lower post-procedural PPI incidence (4.9% vs. 7.3%; P = 0.464). Moreover, ID was significantly deeper in patients requiring PPI post TAVR compared to those without PPI [8.7 mm (6.8–10.6 mm) vs. 6.5 mm (6.1–7.0 mm); P = 0.005]. In Boston LOTUS Edge devices, COP view significantly decreased the incidence of LBBB post procedure (28.1% vs. 47.9%; P

Purpose: To explore the optimal insertion positions of anterior–posterior orientation sacroiliac screw (AP-SIS). Methods: Pelvic CT data of 80 healthy adults were employed to measure the anatomical parameters including the insertable ranges of S1 and S2, the length, width and height of the channel with three different horizontal and vertical anterior insertion points starting from the ilium-acetabular recess. To compare pelvic stability by replicating a type C Tile lesions, fifteen synthetic pelvises were fixed with an anterior plate and a posterior AP-SIS employing different anterior insertion points, the whole specimen displacements and shifts in the sacroiliac gap under a cyclic vertical load of 300 N in a biomechanical machine recorded. Results: The posterior and anterior insertable ranges averaged 17.9 × 8.5mm2 and 47.1 × 21.2 mm2, respectively. The channel lengths for three horizontal anterior insertion points gradually decreased from front to back with significant difference (p < 0.05), whereas the width and height for three horizontal anterior insertion points and the parameters for the three vertical anterior insertion points were similar (p > 0.05). The displacements and shifts for three horizontal insertion points gradually increased from front to back (p < 0.05) whereas the measurements involving the three vertical insertion points were similar (p > 0.05). Conclusion: The posterior insertable range is small, where the center between adjacent nerve roots (foramens) is the optimal posterior insertion point. The anterior insertable range is large, where the iliac-acetabular recess is the optimal anterior insertion point for S1 and S2, providing the longest channel and best stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Commissural alignment has become an important topic in transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) because it may improve coronary access, facilitate future valve procedures, and possibly improve valve durability. The efficacy of commissural alignment with ACURATE neo2 has not yet been shown in a large population. The authors sought to determine the feasibility and success of attempting commissural alignment in an unselected TAVR population treated with the ACURATE neo2 prosthetic heart valve. A total of 170 consecutive patients underwent TAVR with a dedicated implantation technique to align the TAVR valve to the native valve. Using right-left overlap and 3-cusp views, valve orientation was adjusted by rotation of the unexpanded valve at the level of the aortic root. Effectiveness was assessed postprocedure as the degree of misalignment determined by analyzing fluoroscopic valve orientation to corresponding cusp orientation on preprocedural computed tomography. Safety endpoints included mortality, stroke/transient ischemic attack, and additional complications through 30 days. Of 170 patients, 167 (98.2%) could be analyzed for alignment, and all 170, for safety outcomes. Most patients (97%) had successful alignment (≤ mild misalignment), with 80% with commissural alignment, while the degrees of misalignment were 17% mild, 1.2% moderate, 1.8% severe. In this large evaluation of a commissural alignment technique, alignment was achieved in nearly all patients without safety concerns or impact to procedure duration. Commissural alignment appears effective and safe across all patients with this novel technique. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims Left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) can be technically challenging and fluoroscopy-intense. Three-dimensional electroanatomical mapping (EAM) facilitates non-fluoroscopic lead navigation and electrogram mapping. We sought to prospectively evaluate the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of routine EAM-guided LBBAP in patients with structural heart disease (SHD) and advanced conduction abnormalities. Methods and results Consecutive patients with SHD and conduction abnormalities who underwent an attempt at EAM-guided LBBAP were included. The feasibility, safety, procedural, and mid-term outcomes were evaluated. Electrical, echocardiographic, and clinical parameters were assessed at implantation and last follow-up. Thirty-two patients (68 ± 18 years; 19% female) were included, of which 75% had intrinsic QRS > 150 ms, 53% left bundle branch block, and 25% right bundle branch block. Primary EAM-guided LBBAP was successful in 29 patients (91%). The procedural duration was 95 (70–110) min, total fluoroscopy time 0.93 (0.40–1.73) min, and total fluoroscopy dose 35.4 (20.5–77.2) cGy cm2. Paced QRS duration (QRSd) was significantly shorter than intrinsic QRSd (121.9 ± 10.7 vs. 159.2 ± 34.4 ms; P < 0.001) and remained stable during the mean follow-up of 7.0 ± 5.9 months. The LBBAP capture threshold was 0.57 ± 0.23 V/0.4 ms at implantation and remained low during follow-up (0.58 ± 0.18 V/0.5 ± 0.2 ms; P = 0.877). Overall left ventricular ejection fraction improved significantly from 44.2 ± 14.3% at baseline to 49.4 ± 13.1% at follow-up (P = 0.009), New York Heart Association class from 2.4 ± 0.6 to 1.8 ± 0.6 (P = 0.002), respectively. No complications occurred that required intervention. Conclusion Routine near-zero fluoroscopy EAM-guided LBBAP can safely be performed in patients with SHD and advanced conduction abnormalities with high success rates and favourable mid-term outcomes. Further studies are needed to investigate whether the use of EAM improves the overall outcome of conduction system pacing and to identify specific patient populations who benefit the most from EAM-guided lead implantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) requires implantation of the lead deep in the interventricular septum. We developed a novel implantation method that does not require dedicated delivery catheters but only a manually shaped 3-dimensional (3D) stiff stylet., Objective: The aim of the study was to characterize procedural outcomes of this technique when used as a routine approach for LBBAP., Methods: A case-control study compared procedural outcomes of consecutive patients who underwent pacemaker implantation at 2 centers: one using only the 3D stylet-based LBBAP technique and the other using the conventional catheter-based LBBAP lead implantation., Results: A total of 400 patients (age, 75.3 ± 9.8 years; 48.5% female) were analyzed and 230 were matched and included in a 1:1 ratio in each arm of the implantation techniques. No differences were observed in the success rate (95.0% vs 94.8%), fluoroscopy time (9.9 minutes vs 9.6 minutes), paced QRS duration (151 ms vs 148 ms), and sensitivity values (8.2 mV vs 8.5 mV) between the 3D stylet-based and catheter-based techniques, respectively. Small differences were observed in V 6 R-wave peak time (73.2 ms vs 76.5 ms) and capture threshold (0.63 V vs 0.83 V), with a higher percentage of confirmed left bundle branch captures (98.3% vs 77.4%) and a numerically higher occurrence of delayed perforations (2/115 vs 0/115) in the 3D stylet group., Conclusion: LBBAP lead implantation with the use of a manually shaped stiff 3D stylet is feasible and results in comparable outcomes to those achieved with leads implanted by dedicated preshaped delivery catheters., Competing Interests: Disclosures M.J. reports consulting fees and other honoraria from Medtronic, Biotronik, Abbott, and Boston Scientific. P.M. reports consulting fees and other honoraria from Medtronic and Biotronik. G.K. reports consulting fees and other honoraria from Medtronic. B.L. reports consulting fees and other honoraria from Abbott. M.L. reports consulting fees and other honoraria from Abbott. T.R. reports consulting fees and other honoraria from Abbott., (Copyright © 2024 Heart Rhythm Society. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Abstract Background For horses requiring prolonged daily cephalic intravenous regional limb perfusion (IVRLP), the use of a totally implantable catheter (TIC) could be indicated to reduce complications associated with frequent venipuncture or external catheterization. This study aims to evaluate the implantation technique of the TIC in the cephalic vein of horses for IVRLP, describe the complications associated with the device’s placement and use, and assess its viability up to 60 days after implantation. Totally implantable catheters, cut to 15 cm (n = 5) and 46 cm (n = 5) in length, were implanted into one cephalic vein in ten adult horses (n = 10). Twenty-four hours following placement, IVRLP with contrast was performed via the TIC and evaluated with radiography. Physical examinations, lameness evaluation, hematologic assessment, and the catheter patency tests were performed at scheduled intervals for the duration of catheterization (7–60 days). Results Catheters were implanted without difficulty and allowed for IVRLP 24 h post implantation. Complications resulted in removal of the catheters, with four maintained for 7 days, three in place for 15 days, and three catheters maintained for 60 days. Complications included lameness, limb swelling, catheter kinking, and venous thrombosis. Conclusions The implantation technique of the TIC in the cephalic vein of horses is feasible and requires minimal technical effort. Although TIC allows venous access without the need for repeated venipuncture, its long-term use presents complications. For horses requiring prolonged daily cephalic IVRLP, the use of a TIC could be indicated. However, the high incidence of venous thrombosis may limit clinical application.

Copyright of Gefaesschirurgie is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Objective: The purpose of this study was to analyze the stability and instrument-related complications associated with fixation of the lumbar spine using the Short-Rod (SR) technique.Methods: Using finite element analysis, this study assessed the stability of a bilateral lumbar fixation system when inserting the pedicle screws at angles of 10°, 15°, and 20° to the endplate in the sagittal plane. Using the most stable construct with a screw angle, the model was then assessed with different rod lengths of 25, 30, 35, and 45 mm. The optimal screw inclination angle and rod length were incorporated into the SR model and compared against traditional parallel screw insertion (pedicle screws in parallel to the endplate, PPS) in terms of the stability and risk of instrument-related complications. The following parameters were evaluated using the validated L4–L5 lumbar finite element model: axial stiffness, range of motion (ROM), stress on the endplate and facet joint, von-Mises stress on the contact surface between the screw and rod (CSSR), and screw displacement.Results: The results showed that the SR model with a 15° screw inclination angle and 35 mm rod length was superior in terms of construct stability and risk of complications. Compared to the PPS model, the SR model had lower stiffness, lower ROM, less screw displacement, and lower stress on the facet cartilage, the CSSR, and screws. However, the SR model also suffered more stress on the endplate in flexion and lateral bending.Conclusion: The SR technique with a 15° screw inclination and 35 mm rod length offers good lumbar stability with a low risk of instrument-related complications.

The aim of this study was to assess cusp symmetry and coronary ostial eccentricity and its impact on coronary access following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) using a patient-specific commissural alignment implantation technique. TAVR implantation techniques to obtain neocommissural alignment have been introduced. The impact of cusp symmetry and coronary ostial eccentricity on coronary access after TAVR remains unknown. Cardiac computed tomographic scans from 200 tricuspid aortic valves (TAVs) and 200 type 1 bicuspid aortic valves (BAVs) were studied. Cusp symmetry and coronary ostial eccentricity were assessed. In addition, the right coronary cusp/left coronary cusp and right coronary artery (RCA)/left coronary artery (LCA) ostia overlap views were calculated and compared. Severe cusp asymmetry (>135°) was more frequent in BAVs (52.5%) than in TAVs (2.5%) (P < 0.001), with the noncoronary cusp being the most common dominant cusp. The RCA ostium was found to be more often eccentric (>20°) than the LCA ostium (28% vs 6%, respectively; P < 0.001). Considering the right/left cusp overlap view, there was <20° deviation between the right coronary cusp–left coronary cusp centered line and the RCA-LCA centered line in 95% of all patients (TAV, 97%; BAV, 93%). The right/left cusp and coronary ostia overlap view differed by <10° and <20° fluoroscopic angulation in 75% and 98% of all cases, respectively. Using the right/left cusp overlap view to obtain commissural alignment in TAVR is also an effective approach to implant one of the transcatheter heart valve commissures in the near center between both coronary ostia in most TAVs and type 1 BAVs. Preprocedural CT assessment remains crucial to assess cusp symmetry and coronary ostial eccentricity. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: To avoid general anesthesia (GA) and improve postoperative pain management for subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (S-ICD) implantation there is a growing interest for alternative methods. We describe the first experience in the Netherlands of S-ICD implantation under Ultrasound-guided Serratus Anterior Plane Block (US-SAPB). Methods: US-SAPB was performed 1 hour before S-ICD implantation. The two-incision technique was used and a pocket beneath the latissimus dorsi muscle was surgically created. Lidocaine was used to provide anesthesia of the skin. Sedation during defibrillation testing (DFT) was induced by intravenous Propofol. Periprocedural pain experience was monitored using the Numerical Rating Scale for Pain (NRS-Pain). The results were compared with a control group of patients undergoing S-ICD implantation under GA. Results: Forty consecutive patients (29 Male/11 Female, median age 59 years (range 34–84 years), median body mass index 26 (range 17–41) underwent S-ICD implantation; Twenty patients under US-SAPB and twenty under GA. Median procedure time was 42 min. (range 28–60 min.) with no differences between both groups. In both groups implantations went successful and defibrillation was accomplished using 65 J. US-SAPB was successful in 19 of the 20 patients and GA was successful in all cases. Median NRS-Pain in the US-SAPB group was 2 (range 2–6) and in the GA group 4 (range 2–6). In the US-SAPB group 5 patients required additional opioids postoperatively compared to 10 patients in the GA group. Conclusions: S-ICD implantation under US-SAPB is feasible, safe and reduces the need for postoperative opioids significantly. S-ICD implantation under US-SAPB seems a good alternative for GA.

Spinal cord stimulation has become an established method within the therapy of chronic pain allowing for significant pain relief. Surgical leads usually must be implanted via a surgical procedure involving unilateral or bilateral muscle detachment and partial laminectomy. We present the application of a novel minimal invasive microsurgical approach for lead placement, which combines the beneficial advantages of anatomic midline lead placement while preserving the midline structures, avoiding muscle detachments, and thus ensuring spinal stability: spinal process splitting laminotomy. The spinal process splitting laminotomy technique can be successfully applied to introduce the surgical leads for spinal cord stimulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: For horses requiring prolonged daily cephalic intravenous regional limb perfusion (IVRLP), the use of a totally implantable catheter (TIC) could be indicated to reduce complications associated with frequent venipuncture or external catheterization. This study aims to evaluate the implantation technique of the TIC in the cephalic vein of horses for IVRLP, describe the complications associated with the device's placement and use, and assess its viability up to 60 days after implantation. Totally implantable catheters, cut to 15 cm (n = 5) and 46 cm (n = 5) in length, were implanted into one cephalic vein in ten adult horses (n = 10). Twenty-four hours following placement, IVRLP with contrast was performed via the TIC and evaluated with radiography. Physical examinations, lameness evaluation, hematologic assessment, and the catheter patency tests were performed at scheduled intervals for the duration of catheterization (7–60 days). Results: Catheters were implanted without difficulty and allowed for IVRLP 24 h post implantation. Complications resulted in removal of the catheters, with four maintained for 7 days, three in place for 15 days, and three catheters maintained for 60 days. Complications included lameness, limb swelling, catheter kinking, and venous thrombosis. Conclusions: The implantation technique of the TIC in the cephalic vein of horses is feasible and requires minimal technical effort. Although TIC allows venous access without the need for repeated venipuncture, its long-term use presents complications. For horses requiring prolonged daily cephalic IVRLP, the use of a TIC could be indicated. However, the high incidence of venous thrombosis may limit clinical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The authors sought to investigate whether a patient-specific implantation technique during transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) can result in a safe and reproducible neo-commissural alignment of self-expanding transcatheter heart valves (THVs). To date, little attention has been paid to neo-commissural alignment during TAVR. A fluoroscopy-based, patient- and valve-specific TAVR implantation technique was applied in 60 patients treated with 3 different self-expanding THV platforms (Evolut R/PRO, Medtronic; ACURATE neo2, Boston Scientific; and Portico, Abbott—20 patients in each group). Post-TAVR cardiac computed tomography was used to assess THV neo-commissural alignment. Considering all 60 patients, ≤mild commissural misalignment (CMA <30°) was obtained in 53 patients (88%) using this modified TAVR implantation technique—in 36 patients (60%), optimal commissural alignment (<15°) was obtained. In 2 patients, cardiac computed tomography revealed severe CMA (>45°) with overlap between the coronary ostia and THV commissures. Using the ACURATE neo2 platform, operators succeeded in avoiding ≥moderate CMA in all 20 cases. When analyzing those cases in which the optimal amount of THV rotation could be assessed and applied before THV expansion (n = 52; 87%), the success rate of TAVR with ≤mild CMA was 98%. No procedure- or valve-related complications occurred in this study cohort. A patient-specific TAVR implantation technique aiming to obtain neo-commissural alignment is feasible and safe, and aides to prevent THV implantations with overlap between the coronary ostia and THV commissures. Optimized TAVR devices and design may further improve the success rate of TAVR with neo-commissural alignment. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: His bundle pacing (HBP) is the most widely used physiological pacing modality, but difficulties in locating the His bundle lead to high fluoroscopic exposure. An electroanatomical mapping (EAM) system can be an efficient tool to achieve HBP implantation with near-zero fluoroscopic visualization.Methods: In the study, 20 patients who had indications for pacemaker implantation were prospectively enrolled and underwent HBP implantation either with the conventional fluoroscopy approach (the standard group) or guided by a novel KODEX-EPD mapping system (the EAM-guided group). The success rate, procedural details, pacing parameters, and procedure-related complications were compared between the two groups.Results: In the study, 20 consecutive patients were randomized with 10 patients in each group. HBP was successfully achieved in nine patients in the standard group and nine patients in the EAM-guided group. The procedural time was similar between the EAM-guided group vs. the standard group (85.40 ± 22.34 vs. 86.50 ± 15.05 min, p = 0.90). In comparison with the standard group, the EAM-guided group had a significant shorter total fluoroscopic time (FT) (1.45 ± 0.58 vs. 12.36 ± 5.46 min, p < 0.01) and His lead fluoroscopic time (HL-FT) (0.84 ± 0.56 vs. 9.27 ± 5.44 min, p < 0.01), while lower total fluoroscopic dose (3.13 ± 1.24 vs. 25.38 ± 11.15 mGy, p < 0.01) and His lead fluoroscopic dose (1.85 ± 1.17 vs. 19.06 ± 11.03 mGy, p < 0.01). No significant differences were observed in paced QRS duration and pacing parameters between the two groups. During a 3-month follow-up, one patient had a capture threshold increased >1 V/1.0 ms in the standard group, while no other complications were recorded in either group.Conclusion: The KODEX-EPD system could facilitate HBP implantation with significantly reduced FT and dose without compromising the procedural time.

Lead fracture is one of the mechanical complications of implanted cardiac devices. We present a case of mechanical stress-induced left ventricular lead fracture attributed to the hypermobility of the device secondary to sub-muscular implantation of the device without anchoring it. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.)

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine whether the gap-balancing technique with patient-specific instrumentation (PSI) and a new balancing device in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can improve knee function to a greater extent than can the measured resection technique. Materials and methods: Data from 150 patients who underwent TKA from August 2014 to June 2016 were studied retrospectively. The gap-balancing technique assisted by PSI and the new balancing device was used in 80 patients (82 knees), and the measured resection technique was used in 70 patients (70 knees). The surgical, imaging, and knee function data were compared. Results: The gap-balancing technique assisted by PSI and the new balancing device was found to be feasible in all operated knees and reliable. In total, 150 patients (152 knees) of ages ranging from 52 to 78 years (mean 67 years) underwent TKA during the study period. The follow-up period ranged from 35 to 52 months (mean 45 months). Only one patient, who was included in the gap-balancing group, underwent a revision surgery at 2 years postoperatively due to infection. There were no differences in the incidence of anterior knee pain between the two groups. The mean flexion angle, KSS scores, and VAS scores did not significantly differ between the measured resection group and gap-balancing group at 12 weeks or 36 weeks postoperatively. The average joint line displacement was 1.3 ± 1.1 mm (range 0–3) proximally in the GB (gap-balancing) group and 1.2 ± 1.4 mm in the MR (measured-resection) group. No outliers >5 mm in either group were recorded. The mean leg axis deviation from the neutral mechanical axis was 1.8°±1.5° varus (range 0°–3°varus) versus the neutral mechanical axis in the GB group and 1.4°±1.2°(range 0°–3°)in the MR group. No outliers with >3° deviation in either group were recorded. Conclusions: The gap-balancing technique performed with the new balancing device and PSI can yield accurate femoral component alignment as well as outcomes similar to those of measured resection at 3 years. The new balancing device can be taken into consideration by surgeons who prefer performing the gap-balancing technique with PSI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Conventional His bundle pacing (HBP) can be technically challenging and fluoroscopy-intense, particularly in patients with His-Purkinje conduction disease (HPCD). Three-dimensional electroanatomical mapping (EAM) facilitates non-fluoroscopic lead navigation and HB electrogram mapping. We sought to assess the procedural outcome of routine EAM-guided HBP compared with conventional HBP in a real-world population and evaluate the feasibility and safety of EAM-guided HBP in patients with HPCD.Methods and Results: We included 58 consecutive patients (72 ± 13 years; 71% male) who underwent an attempt to conventional (EAM- group; n = 29) or EAM-guided (EAM+ group; n = 29) HBP between June 2019 and April 2020. The centre's learning curve was initially determined (n = 40 cases) to define the conventional control group and minimize outcome bias favouring EAM-guided HBP. His bundle pacing was successful in 26 patients (90%) in the EAM+ and 27 patients (93%) in the EAM- group (P = 0.64). The procedure time was 90 (73-135) and 110 (70-130) min, respectively (P = 0.89). The total fluoroscopy time [0.7 (0.5-1.4) vs. 3.3 (1.4-6.5) min; P < 0.001] and fluoroscopy dose [21.9 (9.1-47.7) vs. 78.6 (27.2-144.9) cGycm2; P = 0.001] were significantly lower in the EAM+ than EAM- group. There were no significant differences between groups in His capture threshold (1.2 ± 0.6 vs. 1.4 ± 1.0 V/1.0 ms; P = 0.33) and paced QRS duration (113 ± 15 vs. 113 ± 17 ms; P = 0.89). In patients with HPCD, paced QRS duration was similar in both groups (121 ± 15 vs. 123 ± 12 ms; P = 0.77). The bundle branch-block recruitment threshold tended to be lower in the EAM+ than EAM- group (1.3 ± 0.7 vs. 1.8 ± 1.2 V/1.0 ms; P = 0.31). No immediate procedure-related complications occurred. One patient (2%) experienced lead dislodgement during 4-week follow-up.Conclusion: Implementation of routine EAM-guided HBP lead implantation is feasible and safe in a real-world cohort of patients with and without HPCD and results in a tremendous reduction in radiation exposure without prolonging procedure time or increasing procedure-related complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Freshwater pearl farming is an emerging sector of aquaculture in Bangladesh which plays a growing role at major jewelry markets. With some improved techniques, high quality image or designer pearls are now produced from freshwater mussels Lamellidens marginalis . Yet it is difficult to reach in conclusion as the quantities produced, culture techniques used, and the upgrading of the existing culture technique are not well documented. Furthermore, many obstacles such as proper dissemination of culture technologies among the interested peoples, optimization of the culture environment and culture methods, standardization of breeding protocol and so on need to be addressed by the scientific community. This review article reports for the first time about the status of freshwater pearl culture in Bangladesh highlighting the fundamentals of pearl production, culture techniques used in farms, challenges, and prospects for upgradation of current culture principles in Bangladesh., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Introduction: The two‐incision implantation technique of the subcutaneous implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (S‐ICD) was introduced as an alternative to the standard three‐incision approach by omitting the superior parasternal incision. Thereby, complications may be prevented. Short‐term follow‐up demonstrated the safety and efficacy of the two‐incision technique. However, long‐term results are lacking. Methods: This retrospective study included patients implanted between February 2009 and June 2020. Patients were divided into a group of patients who were implanted with the standard three‐incision technique and a group who were implanted with the two‐incision technique. Outcomes were defibrillation impedance and efficacy and complications requiring intervention. Results: A total of 268 patients were included (age 42.4 ± 16.6 years, 35.4% female, BMI 25.1 ± 4.5 kg/m2). Thirty‐one patients underwent S‐ICD implantation with the three‐incision technique and 237 patients with the two‐incision technique. First shock efficacy during defibrillation testing was 93% in the three‐incision group versus 94% in the two‐incision group (P =.69), and shock impedance was 85 versus 68 ohms (P =.04). First shock success was 75% versus 76% for spontaneous episodes (P = 1.00). Complication‐free survival at 5‐year follow‐up in the three‐incision group was estimated at 0.96 (95% CI 0.90‐1.00) versus 0.98 (95% CI 0.96‐1.00) in the two‐incision group (P =.20) and for inappropriate shocks at 5‐year 0.77 (95% CI 0.63‐0.94) versus 0.83 (95% CI 0.77‐0.89, P =.30), respectively. Conclusion: Five‐year follow‐up in this S‐ICD cohort showed similar complication rates and effectiveness of two‐incision technique compared to the three‐incision technique. This technique offers physicians a less invasive and more simplified implantation procedure for the S‐ICD, with a better cosmetic result. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: His Bundle pacing (HBP) preserves native ventricular activation through His Purkinje. Unfortunately, most current techniques for HBP implants require sheaths, special leads, and an electrophysiology setup for electrogram recording.Methods: We developed an implantation technique guided by a non-invasive assessment of left ventricular electrical delay (LVED) as a measure of intraventricular dyssynchrony. The objective was to evaluate the usefulness and safety of this technique for implants of pacemakers and ICDs with right ventricular septal pacing (RVSP) using conventional screw-in leads and compare it with a reduced group of HBP (n = 32) guided by His potential mapping. 208 patients eligible for ventricular stimulation were implanted. Conventional screw-in leads were used in all cases. To ensure mechanical stability, stylets required a slight reshaping at the tip RESULTS: RVSP normalized electrical activity in patients with conduction disease, producing NS-HBP-like patterns. The parameters evaluated during implantation for the RVSP group were better than those of HBP and remained constant at a twelve months follow-up. In proportion, the number of dislodgments and the need for CRT upgrade was lower for RVSP than for HBP. Additionally, fluoroscopy time was significantly reduced in the RVSP group.Conclusions: This technique successfully guided RVSP implants in a non-invasive way and represents a simple alternative to the implant of a cardiac stimulation device. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The subcutaneous implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (S‐ICD) is most commonly implanted under general anesthesia (GA), due to the intraoperative discomfort associated with tunneling and dissection. Postoperative pain can be substantial and is often managed with opioids. There is a growing interest in transitioning away from the routine use of GA during S‐ICD implantation, while also controlling perioperative discomfort without the use of narcotics. As such, we assessed the feasibility of a multimodal analgesia regimen that included regional anesthesia techniques in patients undergoing S‐ICD implantation. Methods and Results: Twenty patients received truncal plane block (TBL) immediately before S‐ICD implantation. The first 10 patients were implanted under general anesthesia (GA + TBL), and the next 10 patients were implanted under deep sedation (DS + TBL). Additionally, the DS + TBL patients were also prescribed a structured regimen of nonopioid analgesics in the perioperative period. Opioid consumption was calculated as milligram morphine equivalents (MME). In‐hospital opioid consumption was significantly lower in the patients implanted with DS + TBL (MME = 0) as compared with patients receiving GA + TBL (MME = 60; P = 0.004). Conclusions: Subcutaneous ICD implantation with anesthesia‐delivered DS and a multimodal anesthetic regimen that includes TBL is feasible and associated with significantly less perioperative opioid consumption. The subcutaneous implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (S‐ICD) is most commonly implanted under general anesthesia (GA) due to the intraoperative discomfort associated with tunneling and dissection. Postoperative pain can be substantial, and is often managed with opioids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) have become important in the treatment of cardiac disease and placement rates increased significantly in the last decade. However, despite the use of appropriate antimicrobial prophylaxis, CIED infection rates are increasing disproportionately to the implantation rate. CIED infection often requires explantation of all hardware, and at times results in death. Surgical site infection (SSI) is the most common cause of CIED infection as a pocket infection. The best method of combating CIED infection is prevention. Prevention of CIED infections comprises three phases: before, during, and after device implantation. The most critical factors in the prevention of SSIs are detailed operative techniques including the practice of proper technique by the surgeon and surgical team.

Background: Conduction disturbances demanding permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) remain a common complication after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Optimization of the implantation depth (ID) by introducing the cusp-overlap projection (COP) technique led to a reduced rate of PPI when self-expanding valves were used., Objectives: The aim of the present study was to determine if using the novel COP view is applicable for all types of TAVR prosthesis and results in a higher ID and reduced incidence of new conduction disturbances and PPI., Methods: In this prospective case-control study 586 consecutive patients undergoing TAVR with either balloon-expandable Edwards SAPIEN S3 ( n  = 280; 47.8%), or mechanically expandable Boston LOTUS Edge heart valve prostheses ( n  = 306; 52.2%) were included. ID as well as rates of periprocedural PPI and left bundle branch block (LBBB) were compared between the conventional three-cusp coplanar (TCC) projection and the COP view for implantation., Results: Of 586 patients, 282 (48.1%) underwent TAVR using COP, whereas in 304 patients (51.9%) the TCC view was applied. Using COP a significantly higher ID was achieved in Edwards SAPIEN S3 TAVR procedures (ID mean difference -1.0 mm, 95%-CI -1.9 to -0.1 mm; P  = 0.029), whereas the final platform position did not differ significantly between both techniques when a Boston LOTUS Edge valve was used (ID mean difference -0.1 mm, 95%-CI -1.1 to +0.9 mm; P  = 0.890). In Edwards SAPIEN S3 valves, higher ID was associated with a numerically lower post-procedural PPI incidence (4.9% vs. 7.3%; P  = 0.464). Moreover, ID was significantly deeper in patients requiring PPI post TAVR compared to those without PPI [8.7 mm (6.8-10.6 mm) vs. 6.5 mm (6.1-7.0 mm); P  = 0.005]. In Boston LOTUS Edge devices, COP view significantly decreased the incidence of LBBB post procedure (28.1% vs. 47.9%; P  < 0.001), while PPI rates were similar in both groups (21.6% vs. 25.7%; P  = 0.396)., Conclusion: The present study demonstrates the safety, efficacy and reproducibility of the cusp-overlap view even in balloon-expandable and mechanically-expandable TAVR procedures. Application of COP leads to significantly less LBBB in repositionable Boston LOTUS Edge valves and a numerically lower PPI rate in Edwards SAPIEN S3 valves post TAVR compared to the standard TCC projection. The results should encourage to apply the COP view more widely in clinical practice., 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., (© 2023 Stephan, Krohn-Grimberghe, von Lindeiner genannt von Wildau, Buck, Baumhardt, Mörike, Gonska, Rottbauer and Buckert.)

Total arthroplasty of the ankle joint (TAA) has become an established treatment option for patients with advanced osteoarthritis of the ankle joint. A crucial factor for good long-term clinical results and standing times is careful patient selection, taking the indications, contraindications, and defined prognostic factors into account. Despite modern prosthetic designs, TAA remains a complex surgical procedure that requires precise surgical techniques in a specialized center. Various limitations exist, such as the implantation technique and experience of the surgeon and perioperative complications due to concomitant medications. Current research focuses on the optimization of implant designs, development of personalized surgical techniques, improvement of the long-term performance and minimization of perioperative complications. Future developments, such as the introduction of robot-assisted surgical systems and the integration of biological procedures are also discussed as technological perspectives., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Medizin Verlag GmbH, ein Teil von Springer Nature.)

Purpose: To describe the planning and technique for implantation of the t-Branch off-the-shelf multibranched aortic endograft.Technique: Total endovascular repair of thoracoabdominal aneurysms (TAAAs) with branched endografts is one of the most important paradigm shifts in the past decade. The t-Branch endograft, an off-the-shelf multibranched graft introduced in the European market in late 2012, allows treatment of patients with suitable anatomy in both the elective and urgent settings to avoid delays related to manufacturing time of custom-made devices. The steps required for the planning and implantation of the device are described, including some tips and tricks.Conclusion: The use of an off-the-shelf multibranched device is an appealing option in the treatment of TAAAs, especially in the acute setting. Nevertheless, results of complex aortic repairs with this specific device are associated with a learning curve and can be improved by identifying a number of intraoperative risks and paying heed to several technical details. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is a relatively new medical intervention. Research on dedicated TAVI devices is an exciting and dynamic field to be explored by professionals involved in technological innovation. The authors describe in this article the first engineering concept and part of the US Patent of a new valve prosthesis. Divided into two pieces to be separately implanted using a single catheter by means of an innovative technique, this device aims at reducing prosthesis and delivery catheter profile. Miniaturization of the valve and delivery system is probably the best solution to reduce the morbidity and mortality that derive from vascular complications associated with TAVI. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Background: Alternative techniques to the traditional 3-incision subcutaneous implantation of the subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator may offer procedural and cosmetic advantages. We evaluate 4 different implant techniques of the subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator.Methods and Results: Patients implanted with subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillators from 2 hospitals between 2009 and 2016 were included. Four implantation techniques were used depending on physician preference and patient characteristics. The 2- and 3-incision techniques both place the pulse generator subcutaneously, but the 2-incision technique omits the superior parasternal incision for lead positioning. Submuscular implantation places the pulse generator underneath the serratus anterior muscle and subfascial implantation underneath the fascial layer on the anterior side of the serratus anterior muscle. Reported outcomes include perioperative parameters, defibrillation testing, and clinical follow-up. A total of 246 patients were included with a median age of 47 years and 37% female. Fifty-four patients were implanted with the 3-incision technique, 118 with the 2-incision technique, 38 with submuscular, and 37 with subfascial. Defibrillation test efficacy and shock lead impedance during testing did not differ among the groups; respectively, P=0.46 and P=0.18. The 2-incision technique resulted in the shortest procedure duration and time-to-hospital discharge compared with the other techniques (P<0.001). A total of 18 complications occurred, but there were no significant differences between the groups (P=0.21). All infections occurred in subcutaneous implants (3-incision, n=3; 2-incision, n=4). In the 2-incision group, there were no lead displacements.Conclusions: The presented implantation techniques are feasible alternatives to the standard 3-incision subcutaneous implantation, and the 2-incision technique resulted in shortest procedure duration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of our study is to compare two approaches of implantable cardiac defibrillator (ICD) implantation, conventional (supra/subpectoral) and subcostal in young adults in terms of procedural complications and adverse events encountered during follow-up.Methods and Results: From January 2007 to December 2013, all patients under the age of 50 years who received an ICD in our centre were included in this study. Patient's hospital records were analysed for procedural complications and adverse events during follow-up until December 2014. Data from device on first interrogation after implantation and on follow-up were also noted. A total of 106 patients of which 40.6% had Brugada's syndrome (65.1% male, age 33.6 ± 10.97 years) were included in analysis; 71 (61%) had ICD placed in (sub/supra) pectoral and 35 (33%) in subcostal position. Only seven patients received an epicardial lead system. During the follow-up period of 2.1 ± 1.8 years, 84.90% of the patients had no adverse events. Most of the complications, procedural and during follow-up, occur in conventionally placed, pectoral ICD. Lead follow-up data in both groups, conventional and subcostal, showed no difference in right ventricular (RV) shock impedance and R wave sensing, P-value = 0.56 and 0.77, respectively. Lead survival was 95 and 97%, respectively, in conventional and subcostal groups over a mean follow-up of 2.1 ± 1.8 years. Log-rank test for lead survival was not significant in terms of site of implantation.Conclusion: To the best our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating subcostal ICD placement in young adults and resulting in equivalent to better outcomes when compared with conventionally placed pectoral ICD. Subcostal ICD placement might be considered an alternative option in young adults as it results in better procedural outcomes and also comparable rate of adverse events during follow-up, but bigger studies with a larger number of patients are needed for a definitive conclusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pockets created in the prepectoral subcutaneous space in electrophysiology laboratories for the implantation of a cardiac implantable electrical device (CIED) have several advantages; however, lean or small subjects are thought to cause pocket erosion. To minimize such traumatic pocket complications, prepectoral subfascial implantation has been employed since the early 1990s. In this paper, we introduce a method for prepectoral subfascial pocket creation.

Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) have become important in the treatment of cardiac disease and placement rates increased significantly in the last decade. However, despite the use of appropriate antimicrobial prophylaxis, CIED infection rates are increasing disproportionately to the implantation rate. CIED infection often requires explantation of all hardware, and at times results in death. Surgical site infection (SSI) is the most common cause of CIED infection as a pocket infection. The best method of combating CIED infection is prevention. Prevention of CIED infections comprises three phases: before, during, and after device implantation. The most critical factors in the prevention of SSIs are detailed operative techniques including the practice of proper technique by the surgeon and surgical team. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: In open inguinal hernia repair self-gripping meshes are currently commonly employed. Assumed benefits are saving of time, ease of handling and omission of fixation. Self-gripping meshes are, however, not as easy to handle and position as commonly stated. We describe a newly developed way of intra-operative mesh preparation and implantation and compare it to the conventional technique of insertion of self-gripping meshes.Methods: A two-armed, randomized trial with 64 patients was performed. For implantation of the self-gripping, light weight and partially absorbable mesh we used either a newly described rolling technique (group 1: n = 32) or the conventional way of insertion (group 2: n = 32). Primary endpoints of the study were feasibility with regard to actual implantation time and surgeons' satisfaction with the methods. Secondary endpoints were total operating time, length of hospital stay, postoperative pain, duration of pain medication intake and postoperative morbidity. In addition all patients were prospectively followed up according to the Hernia Med® registry's standards.Results: Implantation time (seconds) 140 ± 74 vs. 187 ± 84, p = 0.008, duration of pain medication intake (days) 3.6 ± 2.8 vs. 4.8 ± 2.6; p = 0.046 and postoperative morbidity 2 (6%) vs. 8 (25%) was significantly beneficial in group 1 (rolling technique) compared to group 2 (conventional method). Blinded questionnaire revealed that rolling the mesh is generally easier with less repositioning maneuvers than conventional placement. Neither overall procedure time, length of stay nor postoperative pain scores differed significantly between groups.Conclusion: The newly introduced rolling technique for the actual placement of self-gripping meshes in open inguinal hernia repair is technically less demanding and therefore significantly faster when compared to the conventional way of insertion of the same product. In addition the rolling technique has shown to be safe for the patients and to also provide higher surgeons' satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: Left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) can be technically challenging and fluoroscopy-intense. Three-dimensional electroanatomical mapping (EAM) facilitates non-fluoroscopic lead navigation and electrogram mapping. We sought to prospectively evaluate the feasibility, safety, and outcomes of routine EAM-guided LBBAP in patients with structural heart disease (SHD) and advanced conduction abnormalities., Methods and Results: Consecutive patients with SHD and conduction abnormalities who underwent an attempt at EAM-guided LBBAP were included. The feasibility, safety, procedural, and mid-term outcomes were evaluated. Electrical, echocardiographic, and clinical parameters were assessed at implantation and last follow-up. Thirty-two patients (68 ± 18 years; 19% female) were included, of which 75% had intrinsic QRS > 150 ms, 53% left bundle branch block, and 25% right bundle branch block. Primary EAM-guided LBBAP was successful in 29 patients (91%). The procedural duration was 95 (70-110) min, total fluoroscopy time 0.93 (0.40-1.73) min, and total fluoroscopy dose 35.4 (20.5-77.2) cGy cm2. Paced QRS duration (QRSd) was significantly shorter than intrinsic QRSd (121.9 ± 10.7 vs. 159.2 ± 34.4 ms; P < 0.001) and remained stable during the mean follow-up of 7.0 ± 5.9 months. The LBBAP capture threshold was 0.57 ± 0.23 V/0.4 ms at implantation and remained low during follow-up (0.58 ± 0.18 V/0.5 ± 0.2 ms; P = 0.877). Overall left ventricular ejection fraction improved significantly from 44.2 ± 14.3% at baseline to 49.4 ± 13.1% at follow-up (P = 0.009), New York Heart Association class from 2.4 ± 0.6 to 1.8 ± 0.6 (P = 0.002), respectively. No complications occurred that required intervention., Conclusion: Routine near-zero fluoroscopy EAM-guided LBBAP can safely be performed in patients with SHD and advanced conduction abnormalities with high success rates and favourable mid-term outcomes. Further studies are needed to investigate whether the use of EAM improves the overall outcome of conduction system pacing and to identify specific patient populations who benefit the most from EAM-guided lead implantation., Competing Interests: Conflict of interest: S.R. is a consultant for Medtronic and a member of the Medtronic European Conduction System Advisory Board; he has received speaker honoraria and proctor fees from Abbott, Biotronik, and Medtronic to his institution without personal financial benefits. D.S. is an employee of Abbott. G.H. has received research grants from Abbott and Boston Scientific to his institution without personal financial benefits. The remaining authors have declared no conflicts of interest., (© The Author(s) 2022. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the European Society of Cardiology.)