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Objective Chronic venous disease is a common vascular condition, affecting up to 60% of the population worldwide. In Australia and New Zealand, chronic venous insufficiency ultrasound examinations are primarily performed by sonographers. This research aimed to explore how ultrasound examinations are being performed, providing insights into current practices and recommendations for quality improvement. Method A questionnaire was distributed to capture demographics, practices of ultrasound, examination techniques, the use of nomenclature and experience of the respondents. Results The analysis of 97 responses showed a heterogeneity in the clinical application of ultrasound. Most sonographers performed less than two scans per day within 30–45 minutes. Deep venous incompetence was routinely excluded by all respondents. The majority used standing, sitting and reverse Trendelenburg position except for a few using supine position. Manual augmentation was the preferred provocation manoeuvre. Anatomical variations at the junctional level were not adequately evaluated. Although Giacomini’s vein was assessed by 80%, 57% of those did not evaluate paradoxical reflux. Seventy-five per cent routinely assessed non-saphenous reflux; however, over 50% were unfamiliar with lymph node venous networks. A significant number of out-dated venous terms were still being used. A low participation rate in continuing professional development was identified, which might be attributable to limited education and training programs. Conclusion The study is a multi-faceted exploration that identified a need for standardized diagnostic and reporting guidelines. Our results could explain discrepancies in diagnostic findings and inconsistencies in the use of medical terminology, with implications for clinical decision making and assessment of surgical outcome.

ObjectivesTo assess the literature on intervention for renal artery stenosis (RAS), with special emphasis on the last two and largest randomized trials, the ASTRAL and CORAL trials.DesignA review of renal physiology, pathology, and pathophysiology of RAS and a critical analysis of the randomized trials.MaterialsPublished literature for renal physiology and RAS were assessed.MethodsRenal physiology, renal intervention, and the limitations and challenges of both ASTRAL and CORAL are analysed.ResultsThe last two reported, and largest randomized trials of percutaneous renal artery intervention for RAS were the ASTRAL and the CORAL trials; both generated much debate and much controversy, however both trials had methodological shortcomings, and assumed a simplistic approach to renal physiology. Both trials were hampered by slow recruitment, and there were protocol changes to accommodate, and CORAL was not powered for subgroup analysis. The primary outcome measure for ASTRAL was the reciprocal of serum creatinine levels and CORAL a complex composite endpoint of cardiovascular or renal events. In ASTRAL, 25% of patients had normal renal function and 40% almost normal renal function; and in CORAL, 50% of the cohort had either no renal failure, or were Stage I or Stage II CKD, (i.e. eGFR of >60 mls/min/1.73 m2). In ASTRAL, 41% of patients had a stenosis of 80% with a significant trans-lesional pressure gradient; difficult to control blood pressure with more than three antihypertensives, especially in younger patients; and those with truncal rather than ostial stenosis; patient with a rapid deterioration of renal function; flash pulmonary oedema; and post-transplant RAS.

Objective This study describes our technique of aggressive angioplasty with juxta-anastomotic stenting (JXAS) in the autogenous arteriovenous fistula and reviews our outcomes with this technique in its mature form. Methods We developed a JXAS technique during the last 7 years. Since 2006, we have placed 135 JXASs. The study period reviews 68 consecutive JXASs placed from 2008 to 2012 using the mature technique. We retrospectively analyzed the prospectively collected data. Thirty-three fistulas received JXAS for failure to mature, and 35 were mature but inadequately dialyzing fistulas (problem fistulas). The JXAS technique involves (1) treating the JXA segment as a unit, (2) aggressive angioplasty with rupture of stenoses, and (3) placement of an uncovered nitinol stent. Results Technical success was 97%. Of the fistulas that had failed to mature, 75% were brought to maturity by 6 months and 88% by 12 months. Adequate dialysis was achieved in all 35 problem fistulas immediately postoperatively. Assisted fistula patency was 90% at 2 years and 80% at 4 years. Conclusions JXAS is an effective technique for maturing and maintaining the wrist radiocephalic arteriovenous fistula.

Introduction: To investigate the use of inferior vena cava (IVC) filters in a tertiary referral centre, looking at indication, types of filters and, with temporary/optional filters, removal rates. Methods: Data was collected from a prospective database of all IVC filters inserted from January 2003 to January 2007. Patients' records and radiological imaging were all reviewed. Results: 66 patients (40 males) had IVC filters inserted during the study period. The median age of the male patients was 57.5 (21–79) years, and females 56 (24–81). There were 49 (74.2%) temporary/optional filters and 17 (25.8%) permanent filters. The most common indication for filter was a contraindication to anticoagulation for both permanent (64.7%) and temporary/optional filters (77.6%). In the temporary/optional filter group, 38 of 49 (77.6%) patients had documented venous thromboembolism, while in the permanent filter group, this was 14 of 17 (82.4%). Of the optional filters, 22 of 49 (45.8%) have been removed. Conclusion: More than half (54.2%) of temporary/optional filters were not removed and with potential for long-term complications. A protocol has now being instituted for vascular surgeons to authorize the insertion of filters and to then be responsible for ensuring their removal.

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a chronic fibroproliferative inflammatory condition associated with progressive vascular stenosis. We set out to determine the relationship between spontaneous stirring-induced platelet aggregation in whole blood and the severity of lower-limb PAD, represented by the ankle-brachial pressure index (ABPI). ABPI was determined pre- and post-exercise in 31 subjects (20 men and 11 women) with established PAD. Platelets counts were determined in EDTA blood (total count) and in citrated whole blood after stirring in the absence of added ADP (spontaneous aggregation) and in the presence of added ADP (ADP-induced) for 3 min at 37 degrees C. Aggregation was calculated as a percentage of the total platelet count. Spontaneous platelet aggregation showed an inverse correlation with pre-exercise ABPI (r = -0.32; P0.05) and ADP-induced aggregation correlated inversely with post-exercise ABPI (r = -0.34; P0.05). These results indicate that platelet hyperactivity is associated with increasing severity of PAD. Increased platelet aggregation may result in thromboembolic events in the affected limb.

Introduction The aim of this study was to review our experience of popliteal aneurysms using endovascular techniques. Methods Thirty popliteal aneurysms in 25 patients were treated over an 11-year period. Median aneurysm diameter was 26 (16–48) mm. Five were symptomatic and 25 asymptomatic. Patients were treated with the Haemobahn/Viabahn stent-graft (26), Passager (two), Aneurx (one), and PTFE homemade device (one). Data were assessed using life table analysis, and expressed as cumulative patency rates and standard error (SE). Results Median follow-up was 24 (range 1–95) months. Primary patency was 92.9% (SE 4.5%), 84.7% (SE 6.8%), 80% (SE 8.2%), 74.5% (SE 9.4%) and 74.5% (11.3%) at 1, 6, 12, 24 and 36 months, respectively. Cumulative secondary patency was 96.5% (SE 3.3%), 88.7% (SE 6.0%), 88.7% (SE 8.6%), 83.2% (SE 8.0%) and 83.2% (SE 9.8%) at 1, 6, 12, 24 and 36 months, respectively. Conclusion Endovascular treatment of popliteal aneurysms in this series achieved patency rates similar to open surgery. Aneurysm repair was performed without peroperative deaths and the risks associated with open surgery.

Purpose: To assess and validate the clinical features predisposing to stent-graft migration and to calculate the distal displacement forces exerted at the proximal fixation site following endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR). Methods: Demographic, anatomical, and graft-related features from 2862 patients were analyzed in a regression model to identify variables associated with stent-graft migration, which was defined as device movement >5 mm or considered significant by the investigator. Using the principles of continuity and momentum, a mathematical model of blood flow was created. The pulse pressure, proximal aortic and distal iliac diameters, and the degree of iliac angulation were varied in the calculations, and the distal displacement force exerted at the proximal fixation site was calculated. Results: Ninety-nine patients developed stent-graft migration, which was clinically relevant in 85 (3.0%). Hypertension (p=0.015), smoking (p=0.009), maximal aortic diameter (p=0.004), and distal transverse aortic diameter (p=0.03) correlated with migration in the univariate analysis, but iliac angulation did not quite achieve significance (p=0.06). On multivariate analysis, current smoking, hypertension, distal transverse aortic diameter, maximum common iliac diameter, and increasing proximal graft size were significantly associated with stent-graft migration. The mathematical model calculated the distal displacement force exerted on the proximal fixation site of the stent-graft and validated the clinical findings. The ratio of graft-diameter change from proximal aorta to distal iliac influenced the greatest increase in the displacement force. Conclusions: The mathematical model validated hypertension, aneurysm morphology, and endograft size as clinical factors significantly associated with stent-graft migration. These findings may have important implications for the choice and design of future stent-grafts.

Peripheral arterial aneurysms are uncommon; for some aneurysm types, data are limited to case reports and small case series. There is no Level A evidence in most cases to determine the choice between open or endovascular intervention. The evolution of endovascular technology has vastly improved the armamentarium available to the vascular surgeon and interventionalists in the management of these rare and unusual aneurysms. The choice of operative approach will ultimately be determined on an individual basis, dependent on the patient risk factors, and aneurysm anatomy. After consideration, some aneurysms (femoral, subclavian, carotid and ECAA) fare better with an open first approach; renal, splenic and some visceral artery aneurysms do better with an endovascular first approach. In our practice PAAs are treated with an endovascular first approach. For these rare conditions, both open and endovascular therapy will continue to work in harmony to enhance and extend the capabilities of modern surgical management.

Dissection of the internal carotid or vertebral artery has been recognized as a cause of stroke in young patients. It is disproportionate in its representation as a cause of stroke in this age group. Intimal tears, intramural hematomas, and dissection aneurysms may be the result of trauma or may occur spontaneously. Spontaneous dissection may be the result of inherent arterial weakness or in association with other predisposing factors. Clinical diagnosis is often difficult, but increased awareness and a range of modern investigations such as computerized tomography or magnetic resonance imaging may aid in diagnosis. Management options include antiplatelet therapy, anticoagulation, thrombolysis, and surgical or endovascular procedures. Prognosis is variable, and dissection may be asymptomatic but may lead to profound neurological deficit and death.

Superior vena cava (SVC) obstruction occurs in patients with intrathoracic malignancies. Clinical symptoms can be distressing but presentation is insidious. We investigated the outcome of endovascular management for patients with SVC syndrome. We retrospectively reviewed the case histories of 17 patients (9 men) from January 2003 to June 2009. All patients had malignant disease. There were 24 interventions (2 patients with 2 interventions and 2 patients with 3 interventions). All had SVC stenosis over 90%. All patients were treated with intrathoracic angioplasty and stenting. All procedures were technically successful, and all patients had insertion of 10 to 18 mm diameter stents with symptom resolution in 16 patients. There were 2 occlusions at 1 and 6 weeks and 2 patients with restenosis (3 and 7 months). Endovascular intervention is technically feasible for SVC occlusion, relieves symptoms, and is a useful palliation measure.

Reason for Withdrawal Protocol withdrawn as no progress had been made toward the review and subsequent overlap with other reviews. To view published versions of this article please click 'Other versions' tab. To view the published versions of this article, please click the 'Other versions' tab.

Platelet activation contributes to graft occlusion after bypass surgery. This study investigated platelet activation status before, during, and after bypass. Blood was taken preoperatively from patients undergoing femoro-popliteal bypass and at incision, after dissection, after ischemia, after reperfusion, 24 hours after surgery, and almost 2 years after bypass (and given aspirin or warfarin). Platelet aggregation was measured using a turbidimetric method and platelet activation with flow cytometry. Statistical analysis was performed using Mann-Whitney U and Wilcoxon's tests. Resting platelet activation was similar between controls and patients undergoing bypass. Platelet activation decreased at incision but remained highly reactive. Platelet aggregation increased after dissection and the ischemic phase but significantly decreased after reperfusion. Platelet aggregation and activation were increased at 24 hours and subsequently after bypass. Platelets in critical limb ischemia exist in the primed state and become activated by minimum stimuli. Increased platelet activation occurs after bypass grafting for critical limb ischemia despite adjunctive therapy.

This study assessed the effect of gender, diabetic status, statin use, smoking, hypertension, cardiac status, and use of cilostazol on the outcome of a supervised exercise program for patients with claudication. Patient risk factors were prospectively recorded in a group of patients who had completed 1 year on a supervised exercise program. In 165 claudicant patients, maximum walking distance increased ( P < .0001) from 67 meters (range, 17-196) to 122 meters (range, 43-409). Quality of life as measured by the Medical Outcome Study Short Form 36 increased ( P < .0001) from a median of 78 (range, 55-110) to 99 (range, 71-154). The improvements in claudication distance, maximal walking distance, and quality of life after the exercise program were not dependent on any of the measured patient factors. Patients referred to exercise programs for claudication are a heterogenous group. Despite this, they benefit equally from such a program.

Crohn's adenocarcinoma of the small bowel is extremely rare. We report a patient with a 10-year history of nonspecific abdominal symptoms who was found on his first presentation to have Crohn's adenocarcinoma of the small bowel. Despite adequate surgical resection, prognosis for this condition is poor with 2-year cancer free survival of around 9%. Crohn's carcinoma should be suspected in patients with long-standing disease and those with and without excluded segments of bowel.

Objective: The objective of this study was to examine patterns of referral, management, and outcome of patients with ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (RAAA) within the catchment area of this regional vascular unit (RVU). Methods: Referral, management, and outcome data regarding 972 consecutive patients admitted to the hospital or certified deceased in the community because of RAAA between January 1, 1989, and December 31, 1995, were retrieved from prospectively gathered computerized national and local databases. Results: Of 381 (39.2%) patients admitted to this unit, 316 (82.9%) underwent surgery, and of those, 188 (59.5%) survived. There was no significant difference in overall mortality between patients who were admitted directly to this unit (152 of 310, 49%) and those who were transferred from elsewhere (41 of 71, 58%). Surgical patients traveled significantly farther to the RVU than nonsurgical patients (P < .001), but there was no significant difference in traveling distance between surgical patients who survived and those who did not. Of 372 (38%) patients who were admitted to other units and not transferred, 24 (6.4%) underwent surgery and 14 (3.8%) survived. Of 972 patients, the overall community mortality from RAAA was 770 (79%). Conclusion: Transferring patients from outlying units did not appear to prejudice operative outcome in this RVU. However, less than half of all RAAA patients were transferred, and only a small minority of those not transferred underwent surgery. Although the overall community mortality from RAAA was similar to that reported in earlier studies from other regions and countries where centralization has not occurred, centralization of vascular surgical services may be associated with an inappropriately low operation and survival rate for those patients who are not transferred to the regional center. The effect of centralization on the community outcome of emergent vascular surgical conditions requires further investigation. (J Vasc Surg 1999;30:922-8.)

Objective To retrospectively assess the outcome of endovascular stent-graft implantation for thoracic aortic transections (ETAT). Design Retrospective review. Methods 16 patients median age 30 years, treated between May 2000 and April 2007. Median injury severity score was 33 (range 29 to 66) in 14 acute patients; 2 patients had thoracic pseudoaneurysms. The Cook-Zenith endograft was used in eight patients, Medtronic-Talent (6) and Gore-Excluder (2). Average procedure time was 90 minutes, blood loss 100 (range 40 to 3000) mls, screening time 10.8 (range 5.9 to 22.6) minutes, and contrast dose was 195 (range 60 to 400) mls. Results Graft deployment was successful in all cases. There was one death within 30 days. The left subclavian artery was completely covered in one case, and partially in three. Two patients had Type I endoleak, and one delayed Type II endoleak. One patient had iatrogenic right coronary artery dissection. Two patients developed difficult to treat hypertension, and one acute renal failure. Conclusion Endovascular intervention is a safe and effective treatment for aortic transection in multiple trauma patients. ETAT reduces the major morbidity and mortality associated with open repair in multiple trauma patients. The majority of these patients are young and long-term follow up is necessary to assess graft durability.