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BACKGROUND: Arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) are pathological, congenital, or acquired communications between the arterial and venous vascular bed. Asymptomatic AVFs do not require surgical or endovascular treatment; however, if they are symptomatic, they must be treated to relieve the patient of symptoms and cardiovascular disorders. CASE PRESENTATION: Our patient had an undiagnosed AVF that became symptomatic after femoropopliteal bypass surgery. We successfully treated these complications with four cover stents. CONCLUSION: The presence of AVFs should be kept in mind in the case of rapidly developing leg edema after revascularization. Endovascular treatment of symptomatic AVF is a safe and effective treatment modality. Treatment of symptomatic AVFs is not only recommended for improving impaired arterial or venous blood flow, but also for preventing recurrent PE.

Background The revascularisation strategy for concomitant carotid and coronary disease is unknown. Simultaneous or stage coronary artery stenting and carotid endarterectomy are the most common revascularisation approach in the CABG population. This study aimed to evaluate long-term results after simultaneous carotid artery stenting or carotid endarterectomy in patients who underwent coronary artery bypass surgery. Methods This is a prospective cohort non-randomised single-institution study. During the period from 2012 to 2015, sixty consecutive patients (65.9 ± 7.41 mean) underwent simultaneous carotid artery stenting and coronary artery bypass surgery ( n = 30) or simultaneous carotid endarterectomy and coronary artery bypass surgery ( n = 30). The primary endpoints were short- and long-term rates of adverse events (transient ischemic attack, stroke, myocardial infarction, and death). The mean follow-up was 62.05 ± 11.12 months. Results In-hospital mortality was insignificantly higher in the carotid endarterectomy, and coronary artery bypass surgery group (6.6% vs. 0%), the rate of stroke and myocardial infarction was similar (13.3% and 0% in the carotid endarterectomy and coronary artery bypass surgery group vs. 6.6% and 3.3% in the carotid artery stenting and coronary artery bypass surgery group, respectively). The intensive care unit readmission was significantly higher in the surgical revascularisation approach; it was an independent predictor of hospital mortality. The overall mortality during the follow-up period was 14.28% in both groups. Freedom of the composite adverse outcomes (stroke, myocardial infarction, and death) was 78.55%. Conclusion Comparing two revascularisation strategies is not straightforward due to different anatomical indications for carotid artery stenting and endarterectomy. We consider that each technique has an essential role in carotid revascularisation. Good selection of patients, according to indications, contributes to satisfactory short- and long-term results.

Introduction. Endovascular treatment of chronic total occlusion (CTO) represents a true challenge even for experienced interventional radiologists. We are presenting a case of hidden antegrade dissection of the external iliac artery (EIA) after a failed attempt to recanalize CTO of the common femoral artery (CFA). Case outline. A 52-year-old male patient was admitted for multidetector computed tomography (CT) angiography. Left common iliac artery (CIA) stenting was performed, followed by ?crossover? attempt of recanalization of right CFA CTO that failed. The next day, left femoral superficial artery angioplasty was performed and after one month, angioplasty of the left popliteal and the bellow-knee arteries. A month later, the patient was readmitted for surgical reconstruction of the CFA. After desobstruction, excellent inflow was obtained and a Dacron graft was inserted. A few hours postoperatively, Fogarty catheter thrombectomy was performed. The next morning, pulsations were weakened again and CT angiography showed antegrade dissection of the EIA. Stenting of the EIA was performed with two stents and a favorable outcome was achieved. After a detailed analysis of the CT, hidden thrombosed antegrade dissection of the EIA was noted in the lateral view, which was not seen in the posterior/anterior view and was presented as fibrous plaque with mural thrombosis. Dissection occurred after failed attempt of CFA recanalization and was clinically silent until flow was established triggering opening of the false lumen and the release of thrombotic masses. Conclusion. In patients with failed angioplasty of CTO of the CFA and CT characteristics of fibrous plaque proximal to the site of attempted angioplasty, thrombosed antegrade dissection should be considered.

BACKGROUND: The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is characterized by a high prevalence of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), particularly in its severe form, but the incidence of DVT and risk factors for DVT in non-severe patients are still unknown. METHODS: The study enrolled 118 patients with non-severe COVID-19 infection which did not required hospital admittance. A duplex ultrasound and laboratory test were performed in all the patients after the first negative polymerase chain reaction SARS-CoV-2 test. RESULTS: DVT was identified in 50 (42.4%) patients with a median age of 48 years (interquartile range 30–85 years). Symptomatic DVT was present in 40 (80%) patients and was commonly seen in the Class I calf vein thrombosis (38 patients, 76%) (χ2 = 51.71, p < 0.001). The most significant risk factors for DVT were as follows: Increased C-reactive protein (p = 0.000), fibrinogen (p = 0.000), low lymphocyte count (p = 0.002), obesity (p = 0.017), and neutrophil count (p = 0.042). The multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that a D-dimer cutoff point of 1253.5 µg/L showed a sensitivity of 92% and a specificity of 71%. CONCLUSION: Patients with increased inflammatory markers and obese patients after a non-severe COVID-19 infection should have an ultrasound examination to ensure early diagnosis of DVT and to prevent the occurrence of any complications. © 2021 Srdjan Babic, Aleksandar Babic, Milica Stojicic, Milena Gencic, Slobodan Tanaskovic, Dragana Radoicic, Predrag Gajin, Igor Atanasijevic, Nenad Ilijevski.

Background The optimal treatment strategy for patients with severe carotid artery disease undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting is still problematic. The important question is whether it is necessary to treat significant carotid disease in patients who have undergone coronary artery bypass grafting. This study analyzed short- and midterm results after same-day carotid artery stenting and coronary artery bypass grafting. Methods From 2013 to 2020, a total of 69 patients were enrolled in the study. Same-day carotid artery stenting and coronary artery bypass grafting were performed in all patients. The study's primary end points were the evaluation rate of stroke, myocardial infarction, and death within short- and midterm periods after the procedures. Results The 30-day mortality was 0%. The occurrences of perioperative adverse events, namely stroke, myocardial infarction, and transient ischemic attack, were 1 (1.4%), 1 (1.4%), and 4 (5.8%), respectively. Mean (IQR) follow-up time was 28 (IQR, 17–43) months. Six (8.8%) patients died during this period. Fatal stroke was registered in 2 cases, and 1 patient experienced a disabling stroke with a fatal outcome. The other 3 patients died because of chronic renal disease, a traffic accident, and for an unknown reason, respectively. Midterm survival in the group was 91.2%. Conclusion The study showed that same-day carotid artery stenting and coronary artery bypass grafting for concomitant carotid and coronary disease treatment could be a promising and feasible therapeutic strategy.

Aneurysms of the splenic artery represent a rare clinical entity, even though they account for 60-70% of all visceral artery aneurysms. Splenic artery aneurysms larger than 5 cm are extremely rare, and they are considered to be giant. Possible causes of splenic artery aneurysm development include: trauma, hormonal and local hemodynamic changes in pregnancy, portal hypertension, arterial degeneration, infection and postsplenectomy occurrence. Surgical treatment of giant splenic artery aneurysms includes procedures that frequently require pancreatectomy and splenectomy. We present a case of a 10.2 cm giant splenic artery aneurysm, firmly adhered to the pancreas, which was treated surgically, with spleen and pancreas preservation. SIMILAR CASES PUBLISHED: Although many cases on treatment of giant splenic artery aneurysm have been published, the majority have described additional visceral resections associated with aneurysmectomy, which is in contrast with our report. Furthermore, aneurysms reaching 10 cm in size were extremely rare.

The primary aim of the presented study is to analyze and compare the rate of carotid restenosis in patients after eversion carotid endarterectomy (eCEA), primary carotid angioplasty and stenting (CASp), and stenting for carotid artery restenosis after previous eCEA (CASr). The secondary aim is to compare clinical outcomes in patients with carotid restenosis. The total number of patients with evident carotid restenosis was 223 (24.8%). In patients with eCEA, significant carotid restenosis rate was 12.7%, in the CASp group 18.7%, and CASr 6.7%. Patients with carotid restenosis were asymptomatic in 95.1% of cases. Patients in the CASp group experienced transient ischemic attack more than patients with eCEA ( P = .007), while no difference was observed regarding cerebrovascular insult (CVI). The incidence of carotid restenosis was higher in CASp patients, and increased during the follow-up. The majority of patients are asymptomatic post-procedural and the degree of carotid restenosis does not correlate with the occurrence of postoperative symptoms. High low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels, smoking, and a history of vascular surgery correlate with higher degrees of carotid restenosis. The most important factor in the prevention of carotid restenosis is risk factor control as well as adequate pharmacological therapy.

BACKGROUND: Aortic graft infection is one of the most serious complications of vascular reconstruction with the incidence of 1%. The clinical presentation can vary, which delays the diagnosis. CASE REPORTS: Infections in our patients affected iliac, inguinal region, and retroperitoneum, which are not relatively common sites of graft infection. We present clinical presentation, imaging procedures, and surgical treatment of three patients with unknown cause of late graft infection after 6, 7, and 9 years. CONCLUSION: In our presentations, the etiological factors of the infection are not known, but they suggest that events in the gastrointestinal tract may be related to them. Aggressive surgery should be taken into consideration as a first choice in the similar cases.

Introduction. Splenic artery aneurysm (SAA) represents the third cause of abdominal aneurysms, just after abdominal aorta and iliac arteries aneurysms, with overall prevalence of 1%. Pancreatitis has been linked with pseudoaneurysm formation of SA due to destruction of arterial wall by pancreatic enzymes, however true SAA associated with pancreatitis has not been described yet. We are presenting the first case of true SAA in a patient with chronic pancreatitis and primary biliary cholangitis successfully treated by surgical excision, direct arterial reconstruction and spleen preservation. Case outline. A 74-year-old male patient was admitted for multidetector computed tomography angiography due to suspected SAA and renal artery aneurysm (RAA). He was previously treated for chronic pancreatitis and primary biliary cholangitis. Upon admission, computed tomography arteriography showed SAA 32 mm in diameter and RAA 12 mm with SAA being in direct contact with superior margin of the pancreas. Surgical treatment of SAA was indicated while RAA was treated conservatively. Intraoperatively, SAA adherent to the superior margin of pancreas was noted, followed by complete exclusion of the aneurysm and end-to-end splenic artery anastomosis. Histopathology showed atherosclerotic degeneration of arterial wall with all three layers presenting as true aneurysm. Two years after the surgery, control computed tomography angiography showed regular postoperative findings without further progression of RAA. Conclusion. This is the first case to describe a true SAA aneurysm originated on the field of previous episodes of chronic pancreatitis and primary biliary cholangitis. Surgical treatment including aneurysm resection and direct arterial reconstruction with spleen preservation showed satisfactory results.

Background The presence of carotid artery disease is known risk factor for perioperative stroke in cardiac surgery. The optimal management of patients with concomitant heart and carotid artery disease is not known. Simultaneous or staged carotid endarterectomy has been proposed to prevent stroke. In an attempt to reduce perioperative morbidity and death, simultaneous carotid stenting and cardiac surgery were implemented (hybrid procedure). This study evaluated early and midterm results after the hybrid procedure. Methods From November 2012 through November 2018, 54 patients (36 men; an average age, 65.8 ± 7.3 years) underwent the hybrid procedure. The primary end points were the occurrence of perioperative cerebral stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), acute myocardial infarction, bleeding, or death. The mean follow-up period was 30 months. Results The 30-day mortality was 0%. Periprocedural incidence of stroke and transient ischemic attack were 1.9% and 7.6%, respectively, and acute myocardial infarction occurred in 1 patient (1.9%). No patients required repeat thoracotomy for bleeding. Four patients (7.6%) died during follow-up. The cause of death was stroke in 2 patients (3.8%), heart failure in 1 (1.9%), and multiorgan failure in 1 (1.9%). In-stent restenosis of the carotid artery occurred in 1 patient (1.9%). Conclusions In this small group of patients, the hybrid procedure proved to be a safe and efficient treatment for patients with concomitant carotid and cardiac diseases. The low rate of perioperative complications and good midterm results are encouraging.

Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) is a widespread and safe procedure associated with very little risk. Only at our hospital surgeons perform nearly 1000 of these surgeries annually, with serious complications occurring extremely rarely[1]. Cerebral ischemic events due to external carotid artery (ECA) thrombosis following a successful internal carotid artery (ICA) endarterectomy is one of such complications. We present a case of ECA thrombosis, following ICA endarterectomy that caused ischemic events.

Background Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is common in patients with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis, but is frequently underdiagnosed. The risk factors for PAD are well known within the general population, but they differ somewhat in hemodialysis patients. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of PAD and its risk factors in patients on hemodialysis. Methods This cross-sectional study included 156 hemodialysis patients. Comorbidities and laboratory parameters were analyzed. Following clinical examinations, the ankle-brachial index was measured in all patients. PAD was diagnosed based on the clinical findings, ankle-brachial index

Summary Background Among asymptomatic patients with severe carotid artery stenosis but no recent stroke or transient cerebral ischaemia, either carotid artery stenting (CAS) or carotid endarterectomy (CEA) can restore patency and reduce long-term stroke risks. However, from recent national registry data, each option causes about 1% procedural risk of disabling stroke or death. Comparison of their long-term protective effects requires large-scale randomised evidence. Methods ACST-2 is an international multicentre randomised trial of CAS versus CEA among asymptomatic patients with severe stenosis thought to require intervention, interpreted with all other relevant trials. Patients were eligible if they had severe unilateral or bilateral carotid artery stenosis and both doctor and patient agreed that a carotid procedure should be undertaken, but they were substantially uncertain which one to choose. Patients were randomly allocated to CAS or CEA and followed up at 1 month and then annually, for a mean 5 years. Procedural events were those within 30 days of the intervention. Intention-to-treat analyses are provided. Analyses including procedural hazards use tabular methods. Analyses and meta-analyses of non-procedural strokes use Kaplan-Meier and log-rank methods. The trial is registered with the ISRCTN registry, ISRCTN21144362. Findings Between Jan 15, 2008, and Dec 31, 2020, 3625 patients in 130 centres were randomly allocated, 1811 to CAS and 1814 to CEA, with good compliance, good medical therapy and a mean 5 years of follow-up. Overall, 1% had disabling stroke or death procedurally (15 allocated to CAS and 18 to CEA) and 2% had non-disabling procedural stroke (48 allocated to CAS and 29 to CEA). Kaplan-Meier estimates of 5-year non-procedural stroke were 2·5% in each group for fatal or disabling stroke, and 5·3% with CAS versus 4·5% with CEA for any stroke (rate ratio [RR] 1·16, 95% CI 0·86–1·57; p=0·33). Combining RRs for any non-procedural stroke in all CAS versus CEA trials, the RR was similar in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients (overall RR 1·11, 95% CI 0·91–1·32; p=0·21). Interpretation Serious complications are similarly uncommon after competent CAS and CEA, and the long-term effects of these two carotid artery procedures on fatal or disabling stroke are comparable. Funding UK Medical Research Council and Health Technology Assessment Programme.

Emergency conditions in vein disease are deep vein thrombosis or phlebothrombosis and superficial vein thrombosis or thrombophlebitis. They occur globaly in general population and are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality. Since deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism very often come together, they are both reffered to as venous thromboembolism. Early recognition of deep or superficial vein thrombosis is extremely important and therapy with anticoagulants should immediately be innitiated in order to prevent potentially life-threatening thromboembolic complications. Thrombophlebitis is usually diagnosed through physical examination, but patients should be refered to dopler ultrasound of lower extremity veins to rule out the existence of deep vein thrombosis. Venous thromboembolism is initially diagnosed using a clinical scoring system to point out patients with high risk, and also the level of D-dimer in the blood. High risk patients with high probability of venous thromboembolism and high levels of D-dimer are then referred to further diagnostic procedures. Direct oral anticoagulants are the first line of treatment in venous thromboembolism therapy, since they carry a lower risk of haemorrhagic complications that vitamin K antagonists, as well as easier implementation without the need for monitoring. Anticoagulant therapy is used for at least three months in order to prevent early recidives, while patients with high risk of suffering from venous thromboembolism again should be taking prolonged anticoagulant therapy. Anticoagulant therapy, most commonly low-molecular heparin, together with the symptomatic therapy of non-steroid antiinflammatory drugs, is the base for treating thrombophlebitis.

Inflammation is one of the mechanisms that leads to carotid restenosis (CR). The aim of this study was to examine the influence of increased values of inflammation markers (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hs-CRP], C3 complement, and fibrinogen) on CR development after eversion carotid endarterectomy (CEA).A consecutive 300 patients were included in the study, in which eversion CEA was performed between March 1 and August 1, 2010. Demographic data, atherosclerosis risk factors, comorbidities, and ultrasound plaque characteristics were listed in relation to potential risk factors for CR. Serum concentrations of hs-CRP, fibrinogen, and C3 complement were taken just before surgery (6 hours); 48 hours after CEA; and during regular checkups at 1 month, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years. An "inflammatory score" was also created, which consisted of six predictive values of inflammatory markers (hs-CRP just before and just after CEA, fibrinogen just before and just after CEA, and C3 complement just before and just after CEA) with a maximum score of 6 and a minimum score of 0. At every follow-up visit to the outpatient clinic, ultrasound assessment of the carotid artery for restenosis was done.Our results showed an increased risk of early CR within 1 year in patients with increased hs-CRP before CEA (6 hours) and increased fibrinogen 48 hours after surgery and in patients not taking aspirin after CEA. Sex was determined to be an independent predictor of CR, with female patients having a higher risk (P = .002). Male patients taking aspirin with an inflammatory score2 had an increased risk for restenosis compared with male patients with inflammatory score 2. Not taking aspirin after CEA and fibrinogen (48 hours) were the strongest predictors, and the Fisher equation incorporating these predictors was used to predict CR. A computer program was created to calculate whether the patient was at high or low risk for CR by selecting whether the patient was taking aspirin (yes or no) and whether fibrinogen was increased 48 hours after CEA (yes or no) and to display the recommended therapeutic algorithm consisting of aspirin, clopidogrel, cilostazol, and statins.Increased hs-CRP before CEA, increased fibrinogen 48 hours after CEA, and not taking aspirin were the main predictors of early CR. With the clinical implementation of the Fisher equation, it is possible to identify patients at high risk for early CR and to apply an aggressive therapeutic algorithm, finally leading to a decreased CR rate.

Background/Aim. Popliteal artery aneurysm (PAA) is the most common peripheral artery aneurysm and second most common aneurysm following abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Still, its incidence is rare and treatment non-standardized. Collection of data in multicenter registry could improve diagnosis and treatment. SerbVasc is newly established data collection collaboration among Serbian Vascular centers. The aim of this study was to assess common surgical practice in diagnosis and treatment of patients with PAA in Serbian hospitals. Methods. Serbian vascular centers that accepted invitation collected retrospectively data about operated patients for PAA in the period 2012-2018. Data regarding symptoms, preoperative diagnostics, vascular and endovascular techniques and postoperative results were collected. This data set was submitted to the VASCUNET international project of PAA for data analysis between the countries. The same data set was used for detailed analysis of contemporary treatment of PAA in six Serbian hospitals: Serbian Clinical Centre (SCC), Dedinje Cardiovascular Institute (CVID), Military Medical Academy (MMA), Clinical Center Novi Sad (CCNS), Clinical Centre Nis (CCN) and County Hospital Uzice (CHU). Results. In the period 2012-2018 in six Serbian hospitals data for 342 procedures due to PAA were collected in 329 (96.2%) men and only 13 (3.8%) women. Incidence of PAA repair was 6.8 operations/million inhabitants /year. Mean age of patients was 64.34 years (ranging from 29 to 87). Total of 223 (65.8%) elective procedures were performed. Amputation and hospital survival were considered as the main outcomes. Thrombosis was recorded in 110 (32.4%) of patients, as a cause for surgery and rupture in 5 patients. Mean diameter of aneurysm was 35.28 mm being larger for ruptured aneurysms (43.8 mm) in average. Both synthetic and vein grafts were used in elective and urgent procedures equally. Endovascular procedures were performed in 6 (1.8 %) cases. Conclusion. This study confirms importance of registry-based collection of data and their analysis. It showed that national incidence of PAA in Serbia is low and that well organized, even per institution based, screening algorithm should improve recognition of such patients and increase number of electively treated PAA. Education of vascular surgeons to use posterior approach could improve vascular healthcare.

Purpose. To present the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of carotid endarterectomy in patients with type II internal carotid artery occlusions, including the long-term outcomes. Methods. From March 2008 to August 2015, 74 consecutive patients (48 men with a mean age of 65.1 ± 8.06 years) underwent carotid endarterectomy because of internal carotid artery (ICA) segmental occlusions. These were verified with preoperative carotid duplex scans (CDS) and CT angiography (CTA). Also, brain CT scanning was performed in all these patients. The indication for treatment was made jointly by a vascular surgeon, neurologist, and an interventional radiologist in a multidisciplinary team (MDT) context. After successful treatment, all the patients were followed-up at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months, then every 6 months thereafter. Results. The most common symptom at presentation was transient ischaemic attack (TIA) in 49 patients (66.2%), followed by stroke in the past six months in the 17 remaining patients (23%). Revascularisation of the ICA with endarterectomy techniques was performed successfully in all the patients with an average clamp time of 11.9 min. All the procedures were performed under general anaesthesia in combination with a superficial cervical block. The early complication rate was 8.1% and included two cardiac events (2.7%) (one rhythm disorder and one acute coronary syndrome), three TIAs (4.1%), and one intracerebral hemorrhage (1.3%). Only one patient with the intracerebral hemorrhage died 5 days after surgery giving a postoperative mortality of 1.3% for this series. During the follow-up period (mean 50.4 ± 31.3 months), the primary patency rates at 1, 3, 5, and 7 years were 98.4%, 94.9%, 92.9%, and 82.9%, respectively. Likewise, the survival rates were 98.7%, 96.8%, 89%, and 77.6%, respectively. Ultrasound Doppler controls during follow-up detected 8 ICA restenoses; however, only 3 of these patients required further endovascular treatment. Conclusions. Carotid endarterectomy of internal carotid artery (ICA) segmental occlusion is a safe and effective procedure associated with acceptable risk and good long-term results. Therefore, the current guidelines which do not recommend carotid endarterectomy in this patient group should be reassessed, with the requirement for ongoing large-scale randomized controlled trials to compare CEA with best medical therapy in this patient cohort.

Overviewing the last 20 years, we stepped forward in understanding, diagnosing and treating carotid arteries disease. More sophisticated preoperative imaging, improved surgical skills, development of new stent materials and techniques and new medication therapy led to better outcome following carotid arteries treatment. Yet, there is a long way to go in order to reduce incidence of peri- and postoperative adverse effects, especially in high risk patients and the elderly population. The saga continues.

EREBRAL ISCHEMIA/HYPOXIA may occur in a vari-ety of perioperative circumstances. The main pathophy-siologic aspects involved in cerebral ischemia/reperfusion arecaused by adenosine triphosphate (ATP) consumption, theexcitotoxic actions of glutamate, changes in ionic homeostasis,and formation of free radicals (Fig 1). Outcomes from suchevents range from subclinical neurocognitive deficits to cata-strophic neurologic morbidity or death.

Peripheral arterial disease is common in the developed world, affecting approximately 14% to 20% of the adult population. The determination of the best method of revascularization or treatment of symptomatic peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is based upon the balance between risk of a specific intervention and the degree and durability of the improvement that can be expected from this intervention. Hybrid revascularization combines open surgery with endovascular procedures to treat multilevel vascular disease. The use of hybrid procedures permits vascular reconstruction that is less invasive than traditional surgical repair. The optimal strategy for revascularization will continue to evolve, but surgery continues to play a significant role in managing patients with PAD.

Background To date, all published studies analyzing simultaneous treatment of carotid and proximal atherosclerotic lesions are describing retrograde approach and several technical variations. In the presented study, for the first time, antegrade approach is described for simultaneous carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and associated brachiocephalic trunk (BCT) or common carotid artery (CCA) angioplasty in the hybrid operating room. Methods From January 2012 till January 2016, antegrade hybrid procedures were performed in 18 patients. All patients were admitted to our institute for elective supraaortic arch multidetector computed tomography angiography when significant simultaneous proximal and distal supraaortic arch lesions were revealed. After surgical exposure of carotid arteries, proximal lesions were crossed by antegrade approach. Prior to stent placement, internal carotid artery (ICA) is clamped at its origin with the guidewire placed in the external carotid artery (ECA). After primary stenting and control arteriography, CCA and ECA are clamped and the ICA clamp moved more distally. An arteriotomy is performed in the CCA, with flushing of possible debris and thrombus before performance of the eversion CEA, once again flushing before completion of the anastomosis. Follow-up ranged from 6 to 36 months with average follow-up of 22.15 ± 11.31 months. Results All procedures went uneventfully. Out of 18 patients, 11 were males and 7 females, mean age 66.6 ± 3.82 years. In 10 patients (55.5%), simultaneous CEA and CCA angioplasty was performed, in 7 patients (38.9%) CEA and BCT angioplasty, and in 1 patient (5.5%) tubular graft interposition between the CCA and the ICA and CCA angioplasty. In 6 patients (33.3%), CCA/BCT balloon angioplasty alone was performed simultaneously with CEA. None of the patient had postoperative transient ischemic attack, stroke, hematoma, dissection, myocardial infarction, or ischemia in the early postoperative period and during the follow-up. There were no lethal outcomes, neither in the early postoperative course nor during the follow-up. Conclusions Antegrade approach for simultaneous treatment of proximal CCA/BCT and distal carotid lesions with temporary ICA clamping is safe and feasible procedure that should be thought of in the future in addition to already described retrograde approach.

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) represents a pathological activation of coagulation (blood clotting) mechanisms that happens in response to a variety of diseases. Diseases of the blood vessels, such as aorta aneurysmal disease, could also cause local activation of coagulation. We report a case of DIC in a patient after the surgery of abdominal aorta aneurysm. 64-year-old woman was admitted to the Clinic for vascular surgery for the diagnosis and surgical treatment of abdominal aorta aneurysm. Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) angiography verified abdominal aorta aneurysm 5.2 cm in diameter with significant aortoiliac stenosis and thereby aneurysm resection with aortobifemoral reconstruction was indicated. The operation went uneventfully but after completed reconstruction and declamping thrombosis of both limbs of Y graft was verified. Immediate bilateral thrombectomy was performed with the blood being sent for detailed analysis that revealed the presence of DIC. Regular monitoring of hemostatic parameters (coagulation factors, platelet function and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM)) enabled timely substitution and administration of anticoagulant therapy during and after surgery. On the 9th postoperative day the patient was discharged in good general condition. Forty days after surgery, the patient feels good with lower limbs vascularization well preserved. Early recognition of disseminated intravascular coagulation during the surgery by attending vascular surgeon, in cooperation with transfusiology center, is of great importance for well-timed detection and treatment of DIC and preventing serious and potentially lethal hemorrhagic and thrombotic complications in these patients.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to analyze clinical outcome of patients for femoropopliteal graft infection who were treated by in situ reconstruction with a silver-coated prosthesis. Basic methods From December 2001 to December 2011, 27 patients were treated for femoropopliteal graft infection. Twenty patients (74%) were male and seven (26%) were female. Mean age was 65 years. The primary endpoint was recurrence of infection. Secondary endpoints were early and late mortality and morbidity, primary graft patency, major amputation rates and patient survival. Principal findings Early reinfection occurred in 11% and late in 8% of patients. Perioperative mortality was 7% and late was 4%. Above-knee amputation was performed in 4% of patients during early postoperative course and in 12% of patients during follow-up. Early and late graft patency was 96% and 72%, respectively. Conclusions Results of in situ implantation of silver-coated grafts for femoropopliteal prosthesis infection are according to our opinion acceptable, but the risk of reinfection remains.

Purpose: To assess the safety of endovascular treatment of chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Materials and Methods: A total of 72 patients with CCSVI and MS (44 with relapsing remitting – RR, 4 with primary progressive, 20 with secondary progressive and 4 with benign MS) underwent percutaneous angioplasty. Outcome measures were colour Doppler ultrasonography parameters, gradient pressure at the vein abnormality level, postoperative complications, re-stenosis, disease severity scored by means of Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) and patients’ assumption of disease status. Controls were done after one month on 72 patients, six months on 69 patients and one year on 61 patients, respectively (the average follow-up was 11 months). Results: There were no postoperative complications. Colour Doppler ultrasonography showed significant improvement in cross-sectional area parameters ( P Conclusion: Endovascular treatment of the IJV and azygous veins in patients with CCSVI and MS is a safe procedure with no post-procedural complications followed by significant improvement of IJV flow haemodynamic parameters and decrease in the EDSS score. Whether CCSVI percutaneous treatment might affect clinical improvement in patients suffering from MS is yet to be seen after completion of major multicentric clinical trials, still it seems like that this procedure is not negligible.

Introduction: Spontaneous dissection of supra-aortic arteries is an exceptionally rare cause of vocal cord dysfunction. We are reporting a case of spontaneous carotid dissection and internal carotid artery aneurysm presenting as vocal cord paralysis. Case Report: A 44-year-old female was admitted with hoarseness and swallowing disorders. Diagnostic imaging revealed dissection and obliteration of the right internal carotid artery (ICA) 23 mm from the carotid bifurcation. Electromyography revealed unilateral paralysis/paresis of the right vocal cord. Genetic analyses for thrombophilia, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, and plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 were found to be at high risk. The patient was discharged after 5 days without any neurological findings, and control angiography revealed complete restitution of the flow in the right ICA one month later. However, a fusiform aneurysm of the distal part of the extracranial right ICA was detected and excluded with endovascular procedure. Conclusion: Connective tissue systemic disorders and even mild trauma could initiate the dissection process of neck arteries. Precise diagnosis might be difficult even for an experienced neurologist, however, the final outcome is favorable.

Introduction. Positional anomalies of the right half of the colon are quite common whereas positional anomalies of the left half of the colon are much less common because of embryological disorders during the period of the embryological development of that part of the bowel. The process of the fixation of the descending colon to the posterior abdominal wall can be absent. In that case, when the descending colon has a free descending mesocolon, it shows some degree of mobility. Case Outline. We are presenting an example of one of the anomalies, which is characterized by the persistent descending mesocolon, which extends from the splenic flexure or just below it to the sigmoid colon. The persistent descending mesocolon in our case contains or surrounds almost complete small bowel in a recess which is located laterally to the left of the midline. The content of this hernial sac simulates the symptoms of an internal hernia followed by clinical symptoms and roendgenographical signs. Conclusion. We are of the opinion that this anomaly is more common than some surveys of literature would suggest.

Background: To evaluate safety, short and long-term graft patency, clinical success rates, and factors associated with patency, limb salvage and mortality after surgical reconstruction in patients younger than 50 years of age who had undergone unilateral iliac artery bypass surgery. Patients and methods: From January 2000 to January 2010, 65 consecutive reconstructive vascular operations were performed in 22 women and 43 men of age < 50 years with unilateral iliac atherosclerotic lesions and claudication or chronic limb ischemia. All patients were followed at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after surgery and every 6 months thereafter. Results: There was in-hospital vascular graft thrombosis in four (6.1 %) patients. No in-hospital deaths occurred. Median follow-up was 49.6 ± 33 months. Primary patency rates at 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year were 92.2 %, 85.6 %, 73.6 %, and 56.5 %, respectively. Seven patients passed away during follow-up of which four patients due to coronary artery disease, two patients due to cerebrovascular disease and one patient due to malignancy. Limb salvage rate after 1-, 3-, 5-, and 10-year follow-up was 100 %, 100 %, 96.3 %, and 91.2 %, respectively. Cox regression analysis including age, sex, risk factors for vascular disease, indication for treatment, preoperative ABI, lesion length, graft diameter and type of pre-procedural lesion (stenosis/occlusion), showed that only age (beta - 0.281, expected beta 0.755, p = 0.007) and presence of diabetes mellitus during index surgery (beta - 1.292, expected beta 0.275, p = 0.026) were found to be significant predictors of diminishing graft patency during the follow-up. Presence of diabetes mellitus during index surgery (beta - 1.246, expected beta 0.291, p = 0.034) was the only variable predicting mortality. Conclusions: Surgical treatment for unilateral iliac lesions in patients with premature atherosclerosis is a safe procedure with a low operative risk and acceptable long-term results. Diabetes mellitus and age at index surgery are predictive for low graft patency. Presence of diabetes is associated with decreased long-term survival.

Introduction. Carotid endarterectomy is a safe and reliable surgical procedure to treat the narrowing of the internal carotid artery greater than 70%. One of the most serious complications of surgical wound after endarterectomy is an infection caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) which is accompanied with high morbidity and mortality. Case Outline. A 62-year-old woman developed a graft infection caused by MRSA after a carotid endarterectomy with synthetic graft placement. Two years after unsuccessful antibiotic and local wound treatment, we replaced the infected graft by an autologous saphenous vein conduit. Conclusion. The case suggests that only by aggressive surgical approach with replacement of infected graft a successful outcome can be achieved in such a rare but potentially fatal post-operative complication.

Introduction. Abdominal angina, also known as chronic mesenteric ischemia or intestinal angina, is a rare disease caused by intestinal flow reduction due to stenosis or occlusion of mesenteric arteries. A case of successful treatment of a patient with abdominal angina by percutaneous transuliminal angioplasty of high-grade superior mesenteric artery and coeliac trunk stenosis was presented. Case Outline. A 77-year-old male patient was admitted at our Clinic for severe postprandial abdominal pains followed by frequent diarrhoeas. Extensive gastrointestinal investigations were performed and all results were normal. Multislice computerized (MSCT) arteriography was indicated which revealed ostial celiac trunk and superior mesenteric artery subocclusion. Percutaneous transluminal angioplasty of the superior mesenteric artery and coeliac trunk was done with two stents implantation. Just a few hours following the intervention, after food ingestion, there were no abdominal pains. Six months later, the patient described a significant feeling of relief after food ingestion and no arduousness at all. Conclusion. High-grade visceral arteries stenoses in patients with intestinal ischemia symptoms can be treated by either surgical procedures or percutaneus transluminal angioplasty. In cases when a low operative risk is anticipated, surgical treatment is recommended due to a better anatomical outcome, while percutaneus angioplasty is advised to elderly patients in whom increased operative risks can be expected.

Introduction. Combined endovascular interventions on carotid and coronary arteries are rare. Stenting of the unprotected coronary left main stem is a high risk procedure. We presented hemodynamically unstable patient with combined carotid artery and left main stem coronary artery stenting. Case report. A 78-year-old female patient was admitted to our institution for right carotid endaterectomy. The patient had 80% stenosis of the right carotid artery and occlusion of the left carotid artery. Coronary angiography revealed 70% ostial left main stenosis, occlusion of the right coronary artery and the left circumflex artery, and 80% stenosis of the left anterior descending artery. Simultaneous carotid artery endaterectomy and coronary artery by-pass grafting were considered. Due to high perioperative risk, surgery was rejected, and the patient was treated endovascularly with stenting of arteries occluded. The procedure was completed without complications and the patient was hemodynamically stabilised. Conclusion. This report illustrates simultaneous coronary and carotid stenting as a successfull lifesaving procedure.

Introduction Nous avons cherche a evaluer prospectivement les resultats cliniques de l’endarteriectomie carotidienne par eversion (ECE) comparativement au traitement medical optimal chez les patients porteurs d’une stenose hyperserree symptomatique de l’artere carotide interne (ACI). Methodes De janvier 2003 a decembre 2006, un total de 309 patients porteurs d’une stenose hyperserree de la carotide interne recemment symptomatique (au cours des 12 mois precedents) et eligibles pour une chirurgie carotidienne ont ete identifies dans notre institution. Les patients ont ete assignes sans randomisation dans deux groupes distincts: un groupe A (n = 259) de patients selectionnes pour avoir une ECE et un groupe B (n = 50) de patients ayant refuse la chirurgie. Les patients du groupe B ont recu un traitement medical optimal, base sur l’opinion du chirurgien vasculaire et/ou de l’angiologue. Les patients ont ete suivis pour detecter la survenue d’un accident vasculaire cerebral constitue (AVC) homolateral, d’un accident ischemique transitoire (AIT) et d’un deces d’origine neurologique pendant 12 mois. Resultats Aucun deces ni AVC peroperatoire et perioperatoire n’est survenu chez les patients ayant beneficie d’une chirurgie. Un AIT est survenu chez 4(1,5%) de ces patients. Il n’y avait pas de difference entre les deux groupes en ce qui concerne le traitement medical a la sortie de l’hopital. L’incidence cumulative a 12 mois d’AIT, d’AVC homolateral et de mortalite d’origine neurologique a ete moins elevee chez les patients ayant beneficie d’une ECE en comparaison aux patients ayant recu un traitement medical optimal (13 [5%] versus 12 [24%], p p p = 0,034, respectivement). Une restenose a ete notee chez 7 (3%) patients du groupe A, et la progression vers une occlusion carotidienne quasi complete chez 15 (37%) patients du groupe B. Conclusion nos resultats suggerent que les patients presentant une stenose hyperserree de l’ACI recemment symptomatiques (au cours des 12 derniers mois) et ayant beneficie d’une ECE presentent une reduction de l’incidence d’AIT, d’AVC homolateral et de deces d’origine neurologique au cours du suivi par rapport aux patients traites par traitement medical optimal seul. Il apparait donc que pour ces patients et dans les centres a forte activite, l’ECE est preferable au traitement medical optimal seul.

We sought to prospectively evaluate clinical effects of eversion carotid endarterectomy (ECEA) versus best medical treatment of symptomatic patients with near total internal carotid artery (ICA) occlusion.From January 2003 to December 2006, a total of 309 recently (within 12 months) symptomatic patients with near total ICA occlusion who were eligible for surgery were identified in our institution. Patients were nonrandomly divided into group A (259 patients), who underwent ECEA surgery, and group B (50 patients), who refused surgery. Patients in group B received the best medical treatment based on the opinion of the attending vascular surgeon and/or angiologist. Patients were followed for ipsilateral stroke, transient ischemic accident, and neurologic mortality for 12 months.There were no intraoperative and perioperative deaths and strokes in patients who were subjected to surgery. TIA was noted in 4 (1.5%) of these patients. There were no differences between the groups with respect to medications on discharge. Cumulative 12 month incidence of TIA, ipsilateral stroke and neurologic mortality was lower in patients who underwent ECEA than in patients on medical therapy (13 [5%] versus 12 [24%], p0.001; 4 [1.5%] versus 7 [14%], p0.001; and 4 [1.5%] versus 4 [8%], p = 0.034, respectively). Restenosis of the operated ICA was noted in 7 (3%) patients, and progression of near to total occlusion was seen in 15 (37%) patients in group B.Our data indicate that recently (within 12 months) symptomatic patients with near total ICA occlusion who underwent ECEA have lower incidence of TIA, ipsilateral stroke, and neurologic death during follow-up than medically treated patients. It appears that, at least in high-volume centers, ECEA should be favored over medical treatment for the management of these patients.

Introduction. Congenital coarctation of the thoracic aorta at the ligamentum arteriosum or the aortic arch is well recognized. But a much less common variety (0.5-2.0%) of aortic coarctation is located in the distal thoracic aorta or abdominal aorta or both and is often called 'middle aortic syndrome' or 'midaortic dysplastic syndrome'. This represents serious pathological condition and indicates multidisciplinary therapy approach. Outline of Cases. From 1996 to 2007, at the Vascular Surgery Clinic of the Institute for Cardiovascular Diseases 'Dedinje', Belgrade, three patients were treated due to abdominal aorta coarctation, two females aged 55 and 50 and a 4-year-old child. The patients were treated surgically (by-pass with a prosthetic graft and patch angioplasty) and endovascular-percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) with and without a stent. The follow-up period was 3-70 months. In the 50-year-old patient, angiography showed severe narrowing of the suprarenal segment of the abdominal aorta. Thoraco-abdominal bypass with a 16 mm dacronic tubular graft was performed. In the 4-year-old patient angiography also showed a suprarenal aorta narrowing. In the first act patch angioplasty was performed and after PTA of the visceral arteries was done on several occasions. In the 55-year-old patient, after diagnostic angiography, infrarenal aorta coarctation was registered. PTA was performed with stent placement. All patients were asymptomatic on control check-ups. Conclusion. Abdominal coarctation is a pathological disease which is seldom found in vascular surgery. Angiography is of major importance for setting the diagnosis and for the control of the results of surgical and nonsurgical treatment. The combination of surgical and endovascular treatment in our patients showed very good results in the studied period.

Introduction. Measurement of vessel stenosis using ultrasonography or magnetic resonance is still the principal method for determining the severity of carotid atherosclerosis and need for endarterectomy. Case Outline. A 56-year-old male was admitted to the Cardiovascular Institute 'Dedinje' due to a clinically asymptomatic restenosis of the operated left internal carotid artery (ICA). Angiography and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) in previous hospitalization had revealed occluded right ICA. However, routine duplex ultrasonography revealed a highgrade restenosis (85%) of the left ICA and subocclusion of the right ICA by an ulcerated plaque (confirmed on repeated MRA). Conclusion. Selective arteriography examination could misrepresent the degree of stenosis especially in patents with the ICA that seems to be occluded. MRA is considered the method of choice for identifying pseudo-occlusions of ICA.

Jugular vein aneurysm is a rare morphologic entity. This report describes a case of an asymptomatic internal jugular vein aneurysm that presented as an enlarging mass in the neck. Diagnosis was established with duplex ultrasonography and venography. No thrombus was diagnosed in the aneurysm, but since the patient was uncomfortable with having a tumor in his neck, surgery was performed with resection of the aneurysm and lateral venorrhaphy of the jugular vein.

INTRODUCTION Inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysm accounts for 5% to 10% of all cases of abdominal aortic aneurysm and differs from typical atherosclerotic abdominal aortic aneurysm in many important ways. Although both inflammatory and atherosclerotic abdominal aortic aneurysms most commonly affect the infrarenal portion of the abdominal aorta, patients with the inflammatory variant are younger and usually symptomatic, chiefly from back or abdominal pain. Unlike patients with atherosclerotic abdominal aortic aneurysm, most with the inflammatory variant have an elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate or abnormalities of other serum inflammatory markers. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are both sensitive for demonstrating the cuff of soft tissue inflammation surrounding the aneurysm that is characteristic of inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysm. Inflammatory abdominal aortic aneurysm can be primarily infected by degenaration of an infected artery (in less than 1% of cases), or can become secondary infected in the already existing aneurysm. Secondary infection of the pre-existing aneurysm has big influence on treatment choice, but is also rare. Clinically non-symptomatic infection, also known as bacterial collonisation, can be very frequent, regarding a greatly increased number of positive intraoperative findings (10-15%). Prolonged intravascular catheterization, vascular grafting, repeated punctures with large bore needles, and decreased immune defense mechanism make uraemic patients undergoing hemodialysis more likely to develop Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia and its complications. CASE OUTLINE The case shows a gigantic inflammatory aneurysm of the abdominal aorta, localized infrarenally, which was solved successfully by resection of the aneurysm of the abdominal aorta, and interposition of Dacron tubular graft 22 mm. Bacterial examination of the aneurysmal sac was positive: methicillin-resistent Staphylococcus aureus was detected. CONCLUSION There were no postoperative complications, and the final outcome was fully satisfactory. Control CT scans after 3, 6 and 12 months were regular, with signs of regression fibrosis of the retroperitoneum.

INTRODUCTION The sciatic artery represents the earliest embryological blood supply to the lower extremity. It regresses after the 3rd month of embryologic development. The proximal part of the sciatic artery eventually persists as the inferior gluteal artery. Rarely, however, it persists into adulthood when it is frequently associated with numerous possible complications (aneurysm formation, embolism, nerve compression, rupture, thrombosis). CASE OUTLINE In March 1996, a 48-year-old male was admitted for angiography of the blood vessels of the right inferior extremity, before an elective orthopaedic procedure. Arteriography of the right leg was done in a usual manner through the right common femoral artery in order to get an angiogram of the popliteal trifurcation and crural arteries. However, on the first field we noticed a hypoplastic superficial femoral artery, as well as a huge persistent sciatic artery (PSA) originating from the internal iliac artery running distally and overlapping the deep femoral artery. There were no aneurysm and stenotic changes of PSA. CONCLUSION If clinical condition is stable, follow-ups at 12 months intervals should be done by means of ultrasound. The therapeutic decisions also depend on complete or incomplete PSA.

Background: Visceral artery aneurysms (VAA) represent a rare clinical entity with possible life-threatening complications. The presentation, diagnosis and management vary accordingly to the artery involved and the underlying pathology. Patients and methods: During a 25-year period (1980–2005), 35 patients (25 males + 10 females, age range 36–73 years-median 59.2 years) with VAA were treated at two tertiary vascular surgery centers in Belgrade. All data were retrospectively collected from the patient’s records. Results: On presentation, 19/35 patients were symptomatic, and 3/35 had ruptured VAA. Surgery was performed in 28 cases; most commonly involved arteries were splenic (11), hepatic (5), celiac trunk (5), superior mesenteric (3), inferior mesenteric (3) and gastroduodenal (1). Fatal rupture occurred in two patients. In 5 patients abdominal aortic aneurysm was associated with VAA, and in 4 patients multiple aneurysms of the involved artery were noted. Successful embolization was performed in 3 patients. Overall, four patients were treated medically. In the surgically treated patients, perioperative mortality and morbidity were 11% (3/28) and 40% (10/25) respectively. Of 25 patients included in the long-term follow up, six died. Conclusion: Since VAA have considerable tendency to rupture, an active approach is necessary. Based on our experience, surgical treatment could be recommended for any VAA patient with symptoms. In addition, we believe that the choice of the therapeutic procedure should be made on an individual basis.

The aim of this article is to review our experience in surgical treatment of carotid atherosclerosis using eversion carotid endarterectomy (ECEA) in 5,034 patients, with particular attention to temporal changes in patients' characteristics, diagnostic approach, surgical technique, medical therapy, and outcome in the early (group A, 1991–1997) versus late (group B 1998–2004) period of ECEA. From January 1991 to December 2004, 5,034 primary ECEAs were performed for high-grade carotid stenosis. Patients treated for restenosis after previous carotid surgery were excluded from the analysis. Group A consisted of 1,714 patients who underwent surgery between 1991 and 1997, and group B consisted of 3,320 patients who underwent surgery between 1998 and 2004. Follow-up included routine clinical evaluation and noninvasive surveillance, with duplex scanning at 1 month after surgery, after 6 months, and annually afterward. Only 3% of patients in group A and 0.6% in group B were asymptomatic, with 23% and 47% of them having preoperative stroke, respectively. In group A, angiography was used for the final diagnosis in 78% of patients. In group B, duplex scanning was performed in 82% of patients and angiography in only 18% ( p < .001). Clamping time was shorter in the latter group (12.4 ± 3.1 vs 14.5 ± 4.1 min, p < .01). Introperative shunting and regional anesthesia were rarely performed in both groups (1.4% vs. 0.4%, p < .01, and 2% vs 0.3%, p < .001). Total and neurologic morbidity was significantly higher in group A than in group B (6.41% ± 0.47% vs 4.81% ± 0.53%, p < .001, and 2.14% ± 0.31% vs 1.23% ± 0.29%, p < .001, respectively). Total mortality was also higher in group A than in group B (1.92% ± 0.24% vs 1.36% ± 0.50%, p < .05), but although there was a trend toward lower neurologic mortality, it did not reach statistical significance (1.04% ± 0.5% vs 0.57% ± 0.25%, p = .074). There was a lower rate of nonsignificant restenosis (< 50%) in group B (2% vs 5%, p < .01), but the incidence of restenosis ≥ 50% was identical between the groups (5.5% for both). Our data show that ECEA is a reliable surgical technique for the treatment of atherosclerotic carotid disease. Temporal trends in our patients demonstrated a decline in periopertive mortality and morbidity, despite a higher incidence of preoperative stroke.

Objective: To analyse the incidence, clinical presentation, and outcome of heart insufficiency in patients with chronic arteriovenous fistulas (AVF). Methodology: From 1991 to 2000 we treated 49 patients with traumatic AVF. The present study included 19 patients with AVF present for 6 months or longer, as it was presumed that these AVF will have an impact on cardiac overload. There were 16 male and three female patients with a mean age of 36 years (17–59). The time from injury to admission varied from 6 months to 33 years. Cardiological examination checked for dyspnoea and palpitation. ECG, chest X-ray and ECHO-cardiography were also performed. All AVF were deleted, magistral vessels reconstructed, non-magistral obliterated, either surgically or by percutaneous embolization. Results: Mean follow up was 44.2 months (3–93). Serious heart insufficiency was seen in two patients only, with AVF in the subclavial vessels. Both suffered from serious heart disease prior to the therapeutic procedures that resulted in iatrogenic AVF, so it was difficult to connect heart insufficiency to the AVF alone. Despite surgical closure of AVF and intensive medical treatment, signs of heart insufficiency remained in both patients. Signs of cardiac overload were seen in six patients with long-standing AVF in major vessels. Except for one patient who refused surgical closure of femoral AVF, the remaining five were symptom free for cardiac overload during the follow-up period. Conclusion: In our series, heart insufficiency was an infrequent complication in long-standing AVF, even when major vessels were involved.