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Komplikationen gefahrden den Erfolg einer Revaskularisation zur Behandlung der peripheren arteriellen Verschlusskrankheit (paVK) und mussen daher primar vermieden oder bei Auftreten effektiv behandelt werden. Es soll eine Ubersicht uber die moglichen Komplikationen nach Revaskularisation bei paVK und deren Management erfolgen. Eine systematische Literaturrecherche wurde in PubMed und Medline unter besonderer Berucksichtigung von aktuellen Publikationen vorgenommen. Die Revaskularisation zur Therapie der paVK kann prinzipiell offen, endovaskular oder als Kombination beider Methoden (Hybridoperation) erfolgen. Das Spektrum moglicher Komplikationen unterscheidet sich dementsprechend. Es konnen Blutungs-, ischamische und systemische oder auch vaskulare von nichtvaskularen Komplikationen unterschieden werden. Das optimale Komplikationsmanagement beginnt mit der primaren Prophylaxe und beinhaltet weiter die zeitgerechte Diagnostik und Therapie von bereits eingetretenen Komplikationen. Die beste Prophylaxe besteht in einer hohen Qualitat von Indikation und Durchfuhrung der Revaskularisation. Fur den Erfolg der Revaskularisation zur Behandlung der paVK ist ein optimales Komplikationsmanagement von entscheidender Bedeutung.

Background Therapy of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) is currently based on a high level of evidence. This is not true in the same manner for iliac artery aneurysms (IAA) which are frequently associated with AAAs and occur only rarely as isolated lesions. The therapeutic principles apply in the same way to both aneurysm locations. Objectives New findings, improved perioperative care and the rapid development of minimally invasive techniques require a constant update which is the aim of this article concerning the therapy of AAAs and IAAs. Material and methods A systematic literature review was performed in PubMed and Medline and priority was given to recent publications with a high level of evidence. Results Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and open aneurysm repair (OAR) result in a similar long-term survival. The perioperative survival advantage with EVAR persists only during medium-term postoperative courses. The reintervention rate after EVAR is substantially higher compared to OAR. For older patients and those who are considered unfit for OAR the expected benefits from EVAR has not been proven to date. Aneurysmal ruptures after EVAR demonstrate that a life-long surveillance of these patients is necessary. Conclusion Therapy of AAAs and IAAs is increasingly being performed by EVAR. Even the majority of complex aneurysms are amenable to minimally invasive treatment. Nevertheless, indications for OAR continue to exist. Screening for AAAs results in a decrease of aneurysmal ruptures for which EVAR is also gaining importance.

Robotic thymectomy with the da Vinci robotic system is the latest development in the surgery of thymic gland. Thymectomy for myasthenia gravis is best offered to patients with seropositive acetylcholine receptor antibodies and who are seronegative for muscle-specific kinase protein. The robotic operation technique is indicated in all patients with myasthenia gravis in association with a resectable thymoma, typically Masaoka-Koga stages I and II.

Einleitung: Ein Aneurysma verum der A. profunda femoris (AAPF) ist sehr selten. In den meisten Fallen sind nur Kasuistiken beschrieben. Empfehlungen zur Diagnostik und Therapie des AAPF basieren ausschlieslich auf Daten eines niedrigen Evidenzniveaus. Das Ziel dieser Arbeit war eine Zusammenfassung der bisher vorliegenden Erfahrung zum AAPF. Material/Methoden: Aus Anlass eines eigenen Falles wurde eine systematische Literaturanalyse zur Diagnostik und Therapie des echten AAPF vorgenommen. Die Literaturrecherche erfolgte in PubMed, EMBASE und in der Cochrane-Datenbank sowie durch eine Handsuche nach Auswertung der Literaturverzeichnisse der einzelnen Publikationen. Ergebnisse: Es wurden 25 Publikationen uber echte AAPF nach 2002 veroffentlicht. Neben 2 retrospektiven Studien uber einen langeren Zeitraum handelte es sich ausschlieslich um Kasuistiken. In diesen Arbeiten wurde uber insgesamt 55 AAPF verum berichtet bei 47 Patienten mit einem mittleren Alter von 63 Jahren. Die Therapie erfolgte aufgrund einer Ruptur in 10 Fallen (18 %). Der Maximaldurchmesser des AAPF bei klinischer Vorstellung der Patienten betrug im Durchschnitt 5,4 cm (2–18 cm). Bei nicht rupturiertem AAPF bestand eine Symptomatik in den meisten Fallen in Form einer schmerzhaften pulsierenden Schwellung in der Leistenregion und am Oberschenkel. Die Ausschaltung des AAPF erfolgte konventionell uber einen offenen Zugang oder endovaskular, mit oder ohne Revaskularisation der A. profunda femoris. Diskussion: Bei der klinischen Symptomatik einer Schwellung und Schmerzen infrainguinal am proximalen Oberschenkel sollte ein AAPF in die Differenzialdiagnose einbezogen werden. Die gefaschirurgische Therapie zur Aneurysmaausschaltung ist elektiv bei einem Maximaldurchmesser von mehr als 2 cm oder Grosenprogredienz und in jedem Fall bei Symptomatik oder Ruptur indiziert. Die Moglichkeiten einer endovaskularen Therapie sollten in jedem Fall in Betracht gezogen werden.

Background Mediastinal ectopic parathyroid adenoma is a frequent cause of persistent or recurrent hyperparathyroidism, traditionally treated by open surgery. Thoracoscopic access is associated with reduced morbidity in mediastinal surgery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of robot-assisted dissection for mediastinal ectopic parathyroid glands. Methods Two patients with recurrent secondary hyperparathyroidism and three with complicated primary hyperparathyroidism were operated on between July 2004 and August 2008 for ectopic mediastinal parathyroid glands. Fusion of single-photon emission computed tomography and computed tomography led to an exact identification of the culprit glands. Surgery was performed thoracoscopically with the da Vinci® robotic system using a three-trocar approach. Results All procedures were completed successfully with the robotic system. No perioperative morbidity or mortality was noted. Median operating time was 58 (range 42–125) min. Intraoperative parathyroid hormone reduction indicated complete resection. Median hospital stay was 3 (range 2–4) days. Conclusion Robot-assisted dissection is a promising approach for resection of ectopic parathyroid glands in remote narrow anatomical locations such as the mediastinum.

Introduction Redo surgery or reintervention following conventional or endovascular aortoiliac reconstruction often requires exclusion of new aneurysms. In the present study the potentials of endovascular management of such lesions are investigated. Methods All patients with endovascular reoperation for of newly developed aortoiliac aneurysms were identified from a prospectively run data-base. The indications and results of endovascular therapy were analysed retrospectively. In detail, data were analysed for the type of original operation, interval until and kind of reoperation, and results concerning survival, technical success and complications. Results From 12 / 2003 through 3 / 2007 195 patients with aortoiliac aneurysms were operated. Endovascular repair was performed in 15 cases of previously excluded aneurysms. Mean age of these 15 patients (12 men) was 73 (64-85) years. Ten patients had a primary conventional (group A) and 5 patients had a primary endovascular (group B) aneurysm repair. The mean time interval between the first and second operation was 8.9 (1-26) years. The secondary endovascular therapy in group A was successful in all cases. In group B endoleaks type I a (n = 1), I a / b (n = 1), II (n = 2) and III (n = 1) were treated. One type II endoleak could only be treated successfully by conversion to open repair, the other one was successfully treated by reintervention. All but one patient are alive and -remained free of pathological findings during a median follow-up of 13 (2-39) months. Discussion Because of the clearly elevated operation risk of redo surgery after conventional or endovascular aneurysm repair, endovascular aneurysm exclusion represents the method of first choice. The reasonable selection and combination of procedures allows for an optimal adaptation of therapy to the individual case.

Background: Critical limb ischemia (CLI) is the end-stage of peripheral artery disease. Only about two thirds of patients with CLI can be revascularised, one third progresses to leg amputation with high associated morbidity and mortality. Therapeutic angiogenesis with bone marrow cells has shown promising improvement in less severe stages of peripheral ischemia. Our study evaluates the therapeutic value of bone marrow cell induced angiogenesis and arteriogenesis in severe, limb-threatening ischemia. Patients and methods: the BONe Marrow Outcome Trial in Critical Limb Ischemia (BONMOT-CLI) is a investigator-initiated, double-blinded, 1:1 randomized, placebo-controlled multi-centre study at 4 sites in Germany. Only patients with no option for revascularisation or after failed revascularisation will be included. A total of 90 patients is to be included. One arm with 45 subjects will be treated with a concentrate of autologous bone marrow cells which will be injected at 40 sites into the ischemic limb. In the placebo arm, study subjects will undergo a sham bone marrow punction and 40 saline injections. At three months, a combined primary endpoint of major amputation or persisting critical limb ischemia (no clinical or perfusion improvement) will be evaluated. Secondary endpoints are death, changes in perfusion, quality of life, walking distance, minor amputations, wound healing, collateral density and cancer incidence. Post-study follow-up is up to two years. Conclusions: The results of this first randomized placebo-controlled trial for autologous bone marrow cell therapy in CLI will clarify the value of this new therapeutic modality in a patient population with no other alternatives except major amputation.

Complete thymectomy (Thx) is a crucial part of treatment for myasthenia gravis (MG) and thymoma. The discussion about the necessity of radical, complete Thx and reduced invasiveness has led to no less than 14 different surgical approaches for Thx. The latest development is robotic-assisted surgery. Though its impact on minimally invasive surgery is not yet clear, it seems to be most promising for surgery in remote, narrow anatomical regions like the mediastinum. One hundred six consecutive robotic-assisted thymectomies (rThx) with the da Vinci robotic surgical system were performed between January 2003 and April 2007 in a prospective single-center study. Postoperative morbidity was recorded according to the Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America (MGFA) classification. With zero mortality, the overall postoperative morbidity rate was 2%. The cumulative complete stable remission rate of MG was > 40% for all patients, and there was no statistical difference as compared to non-thymomatous MG patients. The cumulative rate of minimal manifestations (MM0-MM3) according to the MGFA classification showed a postoperative improvement in quality of life for most of the patients. The da Vinci robotic system allowed for technical refinements of the well-defined operation technique of thoracoscopic Thx (tThx). From the technical point of view, rThx has advantages for mediastinal dissection. rThx had a shorter learning curve. There might be better outcome results for rThx in MG patients, as compared with nonrobotic tThx. Therefore, rThx is a promising technique for minimally invasive Thx.

There are absolute and relative indications for complete removal of the thymus gland. In the complex therapy of autoimmune-related myasthenia gravis, thymectomy plays a central role and is performed with relative indication. In case of thymoma with or without myasthenia, thymectomy is absolutely indicated. Thymus resection is further necessary for cases of hyperparathyroidism with ectopic intrathymic parathyroids or with certain forms of multiple endocrine neoplasia. The transcervical operation technique traditionally reflected the well-founded desire for minimal invasiveness for thymectomy. Due to the requirement of radicality however, most of these operations were performed using sternotomy. With the evolution of therapeutic thoracoscopy in thoracic surgery, several pure or extended minimally invasive operation techniques for thymectomy have been developed. At present uni- or bilateral, subxiphoid, and modified transcervical single or combination thoracoscopic techniques are in use. Recently a very precise new level of thoracoscopic operation technique was developed using robotic-assisted surgery. There are special advantages of this technique for thymectomy. An overview of the development and experiences with minimally invasive thymectomy is presented, including data from the largest series published so far.

INTRODUCTION: The indications for endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) are mainly established in hostile abdomen, in patients with significant comorbidities which affect the general operability of the patient and, given the necessary infrastructure, also in ruptured aneurysm. Along to those, we present another possible indication in the presence of a kidney allograft in patients with aortic aneurysm. METHODS: Based on a case report of aorto-biiliac stent-graft repair of an infrarenal aortic aneurysm in a patient with renal allograft, a systematic review of the literature was performed of all similar cases concerning surgical therapy in this constellation. RESULTS: EVAR was performed using an aorto-biiliac system (Zenith) Trifab, COOK) in a 61-year-old male patient 11 years after heterotopic renal allotransplantation in the right iliac fossa. Preoperative renal function was normal. Because the donor renal artery was anastomosed to the recipient's external iliac artery the stent-graft was implanted from the left common femoral artery to minimize temporary allograft ischemia. The intra- and postoperative course was uneventful with a follow-up of presently 12 months. A primary type-II endoleak (retroleak from a lumbar artery) is being treated conservatively so far with embolization being a future option. At present there are 15 cases of EVAR in renal allograft patients that have been reported, all of them being successful. DISCUSSION: All data existing in the literature reported to date as well as our own experience justify the first choice of EVAR in morphologically suitable cases. One major advantage of EVAR in this constellation is the avoidance of aortic cross clamping which poses the graft at risk of ischemia. Long-term results will be most important for definite assessment of EVAR. However, contrast media application during the operation and for CT surveillance should be considered as a major disadvantage.

Cystic adventitial disease is a rare non-atheromatous cause of popliteal artery disease. We report a case of a 54-year-old patient with claudication of the right calf caused by cystic adventitial disease. Intra-operatively, a communication between the adventitia and the knee joint was identified. Connections between the adventitial cyst and the nearby joint have been reported in the literature that support the developmental theory. This theory suggests that cystic adventitial disease is a developmental manifestation of mucin-secreting cells derived from the mesenchyme of the adjacent joint. This case is the first, to our knowledge, in which a communication between joint and adventitia has been clearly documented by operative findings.

Arterio-arterial emboli originating from a high-grade stenosis of the internal carotid artery are a common cause for cerebral ischemias. Inflammatory processes are not only pivotal in the development of atherosclerotic vessel wall changes, but also for their clinical destabilization. Inflammatory cells, like macrophages, can turn a chronic high-grade carotid stenosis into a high-risk area for the development of arterial thromboses by way of a complex pathogenesis involving the elevation of proinflammatory factors, biosynthesis of collagen-degrading matrix metalloproteinases and expression of prothrombotic tissue factor. This process could affect the occurrence of perioperative complications during carotid endarterectomies. Statins are potent cholesterol-lowering agents. Among other lipid-independent effects, statins appear to play a significant role in preventing cardiovascular events. A number of studies have shown that statins possess plaque-stabilizing effects and that they improve cerebral autoregulation. A growing evidence supports the preoperative administration of statins in patients with high-grade stenoses of the internal carotid artery.

Complications are a threat to successful revascularization for treatment of perpheral arterial occlusive disease (PAOD) and must, therefore, be either primarily prevented or effectively treated after having occurred.The aim of this article is to give a survey of possible complications after revascularization for treatment of PAOD and their management.A systematic literature review was performed in PubMed and Medline. The analysis mainly considered recent publications with a higher level of evidence.Revascularization for treatment of PAOD can basically be performed by an open surgical approach, an endovascular approach or as a combination of both methods (hybrid operation). The spectrum of possible complications varies accordingly. A differentiation can be made between bleeding, ischemic and systemic complications as well as between vascular and non-vascular complications. Optimal management of complications begins with primary prophylaxis and further includes a timely diagnosis and treatment of established complications. The best prophylaxis consists of a high quality of indications and performance of revascularization.Optimal management of complications is essential and of utmost importance for successful revascularization to treat PAOD.

INTRODUCTION Endovascular therapy is being used increasingly also to treat ruptured infrarenal aortic aneurysms. Non-traumatic rupture of non-aneurysmatic infrarenal aorta is an absolute rarity. METHODS The feasibility of endovascular repair of infrarenal aortic rupture is demonstrated with a case history and a literature review. RESULTS A 58-year-old male developed spontaneous rupture of his infrarenal aorta after successful chemotherapy resulting in regression of a periaortic tumor. The patient suffered from a sepsis for several days before aortic rupture was discovered during computed tomography for focus search. Immediate endovascular stent-graft repair was performed under emergency conditions. There is no recurrence and the patient is doing well with the stent-graft in place without any pathological finding after a follow-up of 24 months. So far only three further cases have been reported of endovascular repair for penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer with rupture of the infrarenal aorta. DISCUSSION This is the first report of endovascular repair of aortic rupture due to successful chemotherapy of a periaortic mesothelioma. Furthermore, this is the fourth case of successful stent-graft placement to treat non-aneurysmatic rupture of the infrarenal aorta. Minimally invasive endovascular therapy should become a standard treatment option for aortic rupture.

Wir berichten uber eine 43-jahrige Patientin mit einer rezidivierenden Polychondritis, die mit einer progredienten Verschlechterung des Allgemeinzustandes, Leistungsschwache und Gewichtsverlust zur stationaren Aufnahme kam. 2 Jahre zuvor wurde aufgrund der Befundkonstellation einer nasalen Chondritis mit Veranderungen der Nasenkontur, einer Laryngitis, einer Skleritis und einer unspezifischen Allgemeinsymptomatik (Fieber, Entzundungszeichen, Leistungsinsuffizienz) die Diagnose einer Polychondritis gestellt. Daraufhin erfolgte eine immunsuppressive Therapie initial mit Azathioprin, nachfolgend mit Methotrexat in Kombination mit Ciclosporin sowie Glucocorticoiden in unterschiedlicher Dosierung. Wahrend des stationaren Aufenthaltes bei uns kam es zu einer uber Tage progredienten abdominellen Schmerzsymptomatik und Verschlechterung des Allgemeinzustandes mit der Entwicklung eines akuten Abdomens mit Ileus, Darmperforation und Peritonitis. Im Rahmen der akuten chirurgischen Intervention erfolgte nach Revaskularisation der A. mesenterica superior durch einen aorto-mesenterialen Bypass die Resektion eines ischamisch-nekrotischen Ileums mit Stomaversorgung. Ursache der Ischamie waren ein vaskulitischer Verschluss der A. mesenterica superior und eine Stenose des Truncus coeliacus. Die Polychondritis ist haufig assoziiert mit anderen Autoimmunerkrankungen, insbesondere unterschiedlichen vaskulitischen Manifestationen. Der dargestellte Fall einer chronisch progredienten mesenterialen Ischamie vaskulitischer Genese ist eine seltene Manifestation der Polychondritis und sollte bei ungewohnlicher abdomineller Symptomatik in die differentialdiagnostischen Erwagungen einbezogen werden.

Objective : To describe the local hemodynamics and pressure losses of crural bypass anastomoses using instantaneous velocity fields acquired by particle image velocimetry (PIV). Methods : Silastic models of a Taylor patch, a Miller cuff and a femoro-crural patch prosthesis (FCPP) were attached to a circuit driven by a Berlin Heart, providing a pulsatile flow with an amplitude of 450 to 25 ml/min (mean 200 ml/min). An outflow resistance of 0.5 mmHg/ml/min (peripheral resistance units, PRU) was modeled using small silastic tubes providing a phase shift of −12° between flow and pressure curves. The working fluid consisted of a glycerine/water mixture with a viscosity of 4 mPa s. Hollow glass spheres with a mean size of 9–13 μm were used as tracer particles. Instantaneous velocity fields were obtained by means of PIV and shear rates as well as shear stresses were calculated. Triggered by the flowmeter signal, 10 measurements at 100 ms intervals per cardiac cycle were obtained. The pressures were measured on the inflow and at both distal outflows. The resulting mean pressure losses due to flow separation and distal fluid acceleration were calculated. Results : Inside the Taylor patch anastomosis a large flow separation at the hood containing a clockwise rotating vortex was found. Additionally a smaller flow separation at the heel and a flow stagnation zone on the floor of the recipient artery were observed. Conversely, inside the Miller cuff a counterclockwise rotating vortex was seen inside a large heel flow separation. The FCPP also showed typical separation areas at the hood and heel of the anastomosis, although these were smaller compared to the other anastomoses. Inside the FCPP anastomosis no vortex creation was observed throughout the cardiac cycle. The mainstream velocities at the inlet levels were comparable for the three anastomoses. A significant fluid acceleration was present at the antegrade as well as the retrograde outlets of the Taylor and Miller cuff, while the fluid acceleration at the antegrade outflow of the FCPP was small, which was attributed to the end-to-end configuration of the antegrade FCPP leg. The calculated normalized antegrade and retrograde pressure losses for the Taylor form were 0.90 and 0.88, for the Miller cuff 0.89 and 0.86 and for the FCPP 0.94 and 0.86, respectively. The shear stresses inside the flow separations of the three anastomoses were significantly lower than normal wall shear stresses. High shear stress levels were found inside the transition zones between flow separation and high velocity mainstream. Conclusions : The flow pattern inside cuffed or funnel shaped anastomoses consists of large flow separation zones, which are thought to be associated with intimal hyperplasia development. In addition, fluid accelerations at the distal outlets result in pressure losses, which may contribute to impaired crural perfusion.

Low shear areas at the distal anastomosis of peripheral bypasses are thought to promote neointimal hyperplasia. In this study we evaluated the fluid dynamic environment at the distal anastomosis of peripheral bypasses by means of a new method for in vitro flow visualization and quantitative velocity field measurement. A silastic model of a distal end-side anastomosis was attached to a mock circulation loop driven by an artificial heart. High resolution velocity fields were measured by means of particle image velocimetry (PIV). The velocity vector data were used to calculate vorticity omega, strain rates ex, shear rates h and shear stresses tau. Two separations and a stagnation zone were identified by means of flow visualization. Measured velocities inside the three zones were significantly lower than in the high velocity mainstream. Calculated shear rates and shear stresses inside the zones were significantly lower than human wall shear rates. At the transition between the effective mainstream and the boundary layers high vorticity and compressive strain fields existed, indicating the presence of high shear forces. The locations of these areas corresponded to the well known zones of intimal hyperplasia. The high resolution shear stress analysis supports the low shear theory of intimal hyperplasia development. A wall diversion angle greater than 6 degrees leads to flow separation and presumed IH promotion until high shear transition areas are reached.

Die operative Behandlung von Patienten mit Nierenzellkarzinomen (NZK) und suprahepatisch-infradiaphragmalem oder supradiaphragmalem Vena-cava-Befall (Stadium III und IV nach Staehler) stellt nach wie vor eine interdisziplinare Herausforderung dar. Die potenziell hohe Komplikationsrate und der enorme operationstechnische Aufwand mussen individuell mit dem zu erwartenden Nutzen fur den Patienten in Einklang gebracht werden. In dieser Studie haben wir die operativen Ergebnisse von 24 Patienten ausgewertet und diese Patienten in der Nachbeobachtung und anschliesenden Chemoimmuntherapie bei Auftreten von Metastasen mit einer Kontrollgruppe von 75 Patienten retrospektiv verglichen. Die perioperative Mortalitat bei den 24 Patienten betrug 4%; 4 Patienten hatten zum Zeitpunkt der Operation Metastasen, 14 Patienten entwickelten Metastasen im weiteren Verlauf bei einer medianen Nachbeobachtungszeit von 23,5 Monaten. Das mediane Uberleben betrug 45 Monate bei einer 1-, 3- und 5-Jahres-Uberlebensrate von 92, 57 und 33%. In einer multivariaten Analyse erwiesen sich lediglich das Auftreten von Fernmetastasen (p=0,002) und marginal die Durchfuhrung einer Immuntherapie (p=0,1), nicht jedoch das Vorhandensein des V. -cava-Befalls (p=0,259) oder ein positiver Lymphknotenstatus (p=0,624) als signifikante Prognosefaktoren. Fur Patienten mit NZK und V. -cava-Zapfen im Stadium III und IV stellt die Kombination von aggressivem chirurgischem Vorgehen und Immuntherapie bei Auftreten einer Metastasierung eine realistische Therapieoption mit einer akzeptablen Uberlebensrate dar.

Therapy of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) is currently based on a high level of evidence. This is not true in the same manner for iliac artery aneurysms (IAA) which are frequently associated with AAAs and occur only rarely as isolated lesions. The therapeutic principles apply in the same way to both aneurysm locations.New findings, improved perioperative care and the rapid development of minimally invasive techniques require a constant update which is the aim of this article concerning the therapy of AAAs and IAAs.A systematic literature review was performed in PubMed and Medline and priority was given to recent publications with a high level of evidence.Endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) and open aneurysm repair (OAR) result in a similar long-term survival. The perioperative survival advantage with EVAR persists only during medium-term postoperative courses. The reintervention rate after EVAR is substantially higher compared to OAR. For older patients and those who are considered unfit for OAR the expected benefits from EVAR has not been proven to date. Aneurysmal ruptures after EVAR demonstrate that a life-long surveillance of these patients is necessary.Therapy of AAAs and IAAs is increasingly being performed by EVAR. Even the majority of complex aneurysms are amenable to minimally invasive treatment. Nevertheless, indications for OAR continue to exist. Screening for AAAs results in a decrease of aneurysmal ruptures for which EVAR is also gaining importance.

Thymectomy is relatively indicated and most frequently performed in patients with the autoimmune disease myasthenia gravis. In particular, the indication for thymectomy, as well as the long-term improvement of myasthenia gravis, may depend on patient-derived factors such as gender, age, the severity of myasthenia, the duration of symptoms, the interval between diagnosis and thymectomy, the presence/absence of a thymoma, the serologic investigation (anti–acetylcholine receptor [anti-AChR], anti–muscle-specific kinase [anti-MuSK], or no antibodies), the amount of medication and necessity of immunosuppression, and other comorbidities. There is an absolute indication for thymectomy in patients with thymoma, an epithelium-derived tumor of the anterior mediastinum that may or may not be accompanied by myasthenia gravis. Other rare indications are ectopic mediastinal intrathymic parathyroid glands and different forms of multiple endocrine neoplasia with anticipated thymic carcinoma.

True aneurysms of the deep femoral artery (APFA) are rare and are usually presented as case reports. Recommendations for diagnostics and therapy of APFAs are based on low-level evidence only. The purpose of this paper was to summarise the existing world experience with APFA.On the occasion of our own case a systematic review of the literature was performed for diagnostics and therapy for true APFA. Publications retrieved from PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Collaboration as well as by hand search from their references were reviewed.From 2002 onwards 25 papers on true APFAs were published in the English and German literature. Apart from two retrospective studies over a longer period of time these were exclusively case reports. A total of 55 true APFAs were reported in 47 patients with a mean age of 63 years. Therapeutic intervention was due to a rupture in 10 cases (18 %). The mean maximal diameter of APFA at presentation was 5.4 cm (2-18 cm). APFAs that were not ruptured presented frequently as a painful pulsatile mass in the groin and thigh. Therapeutic options for APFA included, apart from surgical resection with or without reconstruction of the deep femoral artery, the endovascular repair.Symptoms of swelling and pain in the presence of a mass at the proximal thigh should raise the suspicion of an APFA. Surgical therapy should be performed electively in APFAs with a diameter of more than 2 cm or in cases of rapid progression as well as in all symptomatic or ruptured cases. The endovascular approach should be considered as an alternative option in all cases.

Objective: To investigate the effect of aneurysm size on long-term survival after endovascular repair (EVAR) of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs). Methods: Retrospective study of all consecutive patients treated with EVAR for AAA at a single institution. Results: One hundred and nineteen patients (mean age 71, range 45-91) underwent EVAR during a 4-year period. The mean maximal aneurysm diameter was 58 mm (range 34-93 mm). Mean follow-up was 34 months (range 1-80). Cox regression analysis after controlling for age, renal function, coronary disease, and smoking showed a 4.9-fold higher risk of death for patients with preoperative aneurysm size ≥60 mm as compared to patients with aneurysm size

Background We sought to present endovascular management options of persistent or recurrent aneurysm sac flow (“endoleak”) after operative retroperitoneal exclusion of infrarenal abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Methods Recurrent or persistent aneurysm perfusion was diagnosed in three patients primarily treated with aneurysm exclusion and bypass. The medical history, course of disease, and surgical management of these patients were reviewed. Results Three patients primarily treated for infrarenal AAA by division of the aorta with suture closure of the proximal aneurysm end, ligation of the outflow vessels, and bypass of the excluded aortoiliac segment presented with persistent or recurrent AAA sac perfusion and growth. The feeding vessels were the iliac arteries in all cases. Endovascular repair using coil embolization and/or deployment of an occluder or stent-graft was successful in all patients with a follow-up of 42, 36, and 30, months respectively. Conclusion Open AAA repair using the exclusion and bypass technique is associated with the risk of persistent perfusion or reperfusion of the aneurysm sac, which is similar to an endoleak after endovascular aortic aneurysm exclusion. Endovascular therapy should be considered as first-choice treatment when feasible.

Background: The aim of the present study was to analyse the short-term results of treatment of internal iliac artery aneurysms (IIAA). Methods: In a prospective single-centre cohort study all patients with IIAA (symptomatic or maximal diameter ≥30 mm) were evaluated for endovascular repair, which included coil embolization of the run-off vessels and coverage of the orifice of the IIAA with a stent graft. Open repair was performed with aneurysm excision or aneurysmorrhaphy. Outcome criteria were technical and clinical success and complications of treatment. Results: In a period of 40 months 11 patients underwent operation for 12 IIAA. Nine aneurysms were repaired endovascularly and three with open repair. Coil embolization was routinely performed in all cases. At a median follow up of 18 months, technical and clinical success was 100%. Major complications included two early limb thromboses, a contrast-agent-induced nephropathy, and an intraoperative ureteric injury. Conclusion: Despite the limited number of patients, the present series, with good short-term results, further supports the trend towards endovascular repair of suitable IIAA.

Introduction Above knee (AK) femoropopliteal bypass remains a sufficient and durable therapy for long occlusions of the superficial femoral artery in the era of endovascular repair. A novel, precuffed expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) graft that was designed for AK femoropopliteal bypass (Dynaflo, Bard Peripheral Vascular Inc, Tempe, Ariz) has been available for clinical use since March 2005, promising better patency rates by optimizing the hemodynamic patterns within the distal anastomosis. Methods A prospective, multicenter, nonrandomized study was performed to investigate the clinical results of the Dynaflo graft. Primary end points were patency rates, limb salvage, and complications. Results Between March 2005 and August 2007, the Dynaflo graft was used in 135 AK bypasses in 134 patients (110 men) with a mean age of 66 years. Indication for revascularization was claudication in 99 (73%) and critical ischemia in 36 (27%). With a mean follow-up of 18 months the 6-, 12- and 24-month primary patency rates were 90%, 83% and 72.5% and the secondary patency rates were 93%, 88.6% and 82.2%, respectively. The cumulative limb salvage rate at 24 months was 95%. Complications were observed in 39 patients (29%), with bypass failure (29 cases) and significant thrombus accumulation at the distal anastomosis (4 cases) being the most severe. Conclusion This study presents the first clinical results of a novel ePTFE graft for supragenicular revascularization. The implantation of the Dynaflo graft seems to be safe and feasible for AK bypass, achieving acceptable medium-term patency rates. Nevertheless, long-term results have to be awaited, and prospective comparative studies are warranted.

Introduction: Due to anastomotic engineering, the Dynaflo™ prosthetic graft, like the Distaflo®prosthesis, offers a precuffed distal anastomotic site similar to the Miller cuff aiming at optimized hemodynamics within the distal termino-lateral anastomosis particularly for femoropopliteal supragenual bypasses. Graft thrombosis and subendothelial myointimal hyperplasia may thus be reduced. The aim of the present study is to obtain the first clinical results with this new prosthetic graft.

Introduction: Dissection of an extremity artery is a rare event, even more so in case of a dissecting aneurysm.

Objective: Secondary aortoenteric fistula (SAF) is a rare but fatal complication of reconstructive aortoiliac surgery. The purpose of this study was to identify variables associated with poor outcome, after reviewing the clinical presentation, surgical management, and late events.

There are absolute and relative indications for complete removal of the thymus gland. In the complex therapy of autoimmune-related myasthenia gravis, thymectomy plays a central role and is performed with relative indication. In case of thymoma with or without myasthenia, thymectomy is absolutely indicated. Thymus resection is further necessary for cases of hyperparathyroidism with ectopic intrathymic parathyroids or with certain forms of multiple endocrine neoplasia. The transcervical operation technique traditionally reflected the well-founded desire for minimal invasiveness for thymectomy. Due to the requirement of radicality however, most of these operations were performed using sternotomy. With the evolution of therapeutic thoracoscopy in thoracic surgery, several pure or extended minimally invasive operation techniques for thymectomy have been developed. At present uni- or bilateral, subxiphoid, and modified transcervical single or combination thoracoscopic techniques are in use. Recently a very precise new level of thoracoscopic operation technique was developed using robotic-assisted surgery. There are special advantages of this technique for thymectomy. An overview of the development and experiences with minimally invasive thymectomy is presented, including data from the largest series published so far.

The indications for endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) are mainly established in hostile abdomen, in patients with significant comorbidities which affect the general operability of the patient and, given the necessary infrastructure, also in ruptured aneurysm. Along to those, we present another possible indication in the presence of a kidney allograft in patients with aortic aneurysm.Based on a case report of aorto-biiliac stent-graft repair of an infrarenal aortic aneurysm in a patient with renal allograft, a systematic review of the literature was performed of all similar cases concerning surgical therapy in this constellation.EVAR was performed using an aorto-biiliac system (Zenith) Trifab, COOK) in a 61-year-old male patient 11 years after heterotopic renal allotransplantation in the right iliac fossa. Preoperative renal function was normal. Because the donor renal artery was anastomosed to the recipient's external iliac artery the stent-graft was implanted from the left common femoral artery to minimize temporary allograft ischemia. The intra- and postoperative course was uneventful with a follow-up of presently 12 months. A primary type-II endoleak (retroleak from a lumbar artery) is being treated conservatively so far with embolization being a future option. At present there are 15 cases of EVAR in renal allograft patients that have been reported, all of them being successful.All data existing in the literature reported to date as well as our own experience justify the first choice of EVAR in morphologically suitable cases. One major advantage of EVAR in this constellation is the avoidance of aortic cross clamping which poses the graft at risk of ischemia. Long-term results will be most important for definite assessment of EVAR. However, contrast media application during the operation and for CT surveillance should be considered as a major disadvantage.

Arterio-arterial emboli originating from a high-grade stenosis of the internal carotid artery are a common cause for cerebral ischemias. Inflammatory processes are not only pivotal in the development of atherosclerotic vessel wall changes, but also for their clinical destabilization. Inflammatory cells, like macrophages, can turn a chronic high-grade carotid stenosis into a high-risk area for the development of arterial thromboses by way of a complex pathogenesis involving the elevation of proinflammatory factors, biosynthesis of collagen-degrading matrix metalloproteinases and expression of prothrombotic tissue factor. This process could affect the occurrence of perioperative complications during carotid endarterectomies. Statins are potent cholesterol-lowering agents. Among other lipid-independent effects, statins appear to play a significant role in preventing cardiovascular events. A number of studies have shown that statins possess plaque-stabilizing effects and that they improve cerebral autoregulation. A growing evidence supports the preoperative administration of statins in patients with high-grade stenoses of the internal carotid artery.

Ziel dieser Studie war die Evaluierung qualitativer (morphologischer) und semiquantitativer (funktioneller) Informationen mittels der Lymphszintigraphie bei Patienten mit peripherer arterieller Verschlusskrankheit (PAVK) der unteren Extremitat vor und nach arterieller Gefasrekonstruktion. Pra- und postoperativ wurde bei 16 Patienten (Fontaine-Stadium ≥ IIb) nach Injektion von 110 MBq 99mTc-Nanokolloid in die Schwimmhaute der Fuse eine dynamische und statische Lymphszintigraphie durchgefuhrt. Unterschieden wurden Gruppe I mit femoro-poplitealen (n = 7) und Gruppe II mit aorto-iliakalen Gefasokklusionen (n = 16). In Gruppe I wurden femoro-popliteale oder -krurale, in Gruppe II aorto-bifemorale oder -profundale Bypasse angelegt. Alle semiquantitativen und qualitativen Parameter aus der Lymphszintigraphie wurden in dem Transportindex nach Kleinhans abgebildet, in einen Score umgerechnet und mit einer Kontrollgruppe von Probanden (n = 12) ohne PAVK verglichen. Der Score fur den Kleinhans-Transportindex wurde bei Werten zwischen 0 und 19 als normal und bei Werten > 19 als pathologisch definiert. In Gruppe I zeigte er sowohl pra- als auch postoperativ einen Median von 24,0 (14; 28) (25. und 75. Perzentile) und 29,0 (19; 34), in Gruppe II mit 26,0 (18; 33) und 27,2% (26; 30) einen erhohten pathologischen Wert im Vergleich zur Kontrollgruppe. Die Ergebnisse der Lymphszintigraphie und die Abbildung in einem Transportindex konnten zuverlassig pra- und postoperativ den Lymphgefasstatus in beiden Gruppen darstellen. Interessanterweise zeigten die femoro-poplitealen oder aorto-iliakalen Bypassoperationen postoperativ keine deutliche Verschlechterung des Lymphgefasstatus. Dies ist ein indirekter Hinweis fur die Gute und Qualitat heutiger Bypassoperationen. Die standardisierte Lymphszintigraphie ist daher ein geeignetes nuklearmedizinisches Verfahren, um praoperativ morphologische und funktionelle von postoperativen Veranderungen nach arterieller Rekonstruktion bei Patienten mit PAVK abzugrenzen.

Purpose To report the first successful endovascular repair of a non-aneurysmal aortic rupture due to periaortic tumour regression. Case Report A 58-year-old man developed spontaneous infrarenal aortic rupture following chemotherapy which led to regression of a periaortic mesothelioma that had been diagnosed during explorative laparotomy 11 months earlier. Stent-graft placement was performed with intentional conversion of a bifurcated (Zenith, COOK) into an aorto-uni-iliac system. No complications were encountered during a 40 months follow-up. Conclusion Endovascular repair should be considered as a treatment option in non-aneurysmal aortic rupture.

Therapeutic angiogenesis represents a novel approach to treat critical limb ischemia when revascularization is no more an option. The clinical use of the vascular endothelial growth factor is questioned, because of its side effects. This study was designed to identify and characterize human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) Tat-derived peptides based on their pro-angiogenic properties. A series of Tat-derived peptides were synthesized containing mutations in the basic domain. To minimize side effects Tat peptides were selected exerting no effects on the proteasome and on the viability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). Tatpep5, 15, and 16 increased the endogenous levels of the pro-angiogenic transcription factors c-Jun and SP-1 as well as the production of the plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) by HUVEC. A significant induction of endothelial cell invasion was observed upon treatment of HUVEC with Tat peptides. In addition, selected Tat peptides induced tube formation by HUVEC as visualized and quantified in a Matrigel matrix. Our data demonstrate that the selected Tat peptides fulfill essential criteria for pro-angiogenic substances. They represent the basis for the development of novel pro-angiogenic drugs for future therapeutic angiogenesis, which might be applied for treatment of unreconstructible critical limb ischemia.

Takayasu’s arteritis and primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) are two unrelated autoimmune diseases without a so far reported coincidence, probably because they occur at different ages.1,2 As a systemic vasculitis, Takayasu’s arteritis affects predominantly the aorta and its branches in female patients before the age of 40 years. The clinical manifestations are variable and severe anatomical lesions can lead to life threatening ischaemia. We report an unusual case, where, after the initial diagnosis of a coincident severe Takayasu’s arteritis with PBC, subsequent immunosuppressive treatment led to a striking clinical improvement of vasculitic symptoms in an elderly woman. A 70 year old woman was referred to our hospital with generalised weakness and disseminated painful cutaneous, erythematous nodules on the extensor sites of both lower legs. A rheumatic disorder had been suspected since 1960 because of remittent nausea, attacks of fulminant headaches, and an erythema nodosum. Clinical examination showed a diminished bilateral radial and an absent carotid pulse as well as hypotensive blood pressure on both arms (85/60 and 90/60 mm …

Die konventionelle Therapie des inflammatorischen Aortenaneurysmas (IAA) ist haufig technisch anspruchsvoll und hat ein erhohtes Komplikationspotential. Mit der endovaskularen Therapie (ET) steht eine alternative Methode zur Verfugung, die unabhangig von den morphologischen Besonderheiten des IAA bleibt. Andererseits induziert die ET selbst eine mehr oder weniger ausgepragte inflammatorische Reaktion. Es erhebt sich die Frage, ob dennoch oder sogar gerade wegen des minimal-invasiven Charakters dieser Methode eine Indikation zur ET des IAA besteht?

Objective To study the local hemodynamics and energy losses of crural anastomoses using Particle Image Velocimetry.

Introduction This study is designed to develop a possible therapy for the treatment of end-stage unreconstructible peripheral arterial occlusive diseases based on the pro-angiogenic effect of human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) Tat-derived peptides. The viral Tat protein exerts pleiotropic effects on host cells [1]. It is a main transactivator of HIV-1 and suppresses the immune system by modulating the activity of the proteasome [2, 3]. It has a potent pro-angiogenic activity, presumably located to the basic domain of the Tat protein, which causes the development of Kaposi sarcoma in AIDS patients [1]. The aim of this study is to identify the Tat region responsible for the pro-angiogenic effect and test its possible application for therapy.

Femorodistal bypass using exclusively PTFE is known to have a poor prognosis, mostly because of the development of myointimal hyperplasia (MIH). Several vein patch techniques are established but the role of hemodynamics within the anastomotic site has only been explained insufficiently and is hardly considered clinically. In a prospective study, between 6/1992 and 7/1998 129 patients (89 m/40 f, mean age 65.2 +/- 10.0 years) with critical limb ischemia and no usable saphenous vein were included to undergo femorodistal ePTFE bypass grafting with a new, hemodynamically optimized distal end-to-side anastomosis. Patients were followed at 6-month intervals with clinical investigation and color-coded Doppler sonography. Primary and secondary graft patency (PPR, SPR), limb salvage, and patient survival were calculated according to Kaplan-Meier. With a median follow-up of 45 (range 6 to 72) months, PPR and SPR at 1, 3 and 5 years were 63.0, 35.7 and 27.6% and 74.5, 44.8%, and 37.6%, respectively. Limb salvage at 1, 3 and 5 years was 86.4%, 78.7% und 73.2%. There was no perioperative mortality. Graft infection occurred in 7 patients (5.2%). ePTFE bypass grafting represents a valuable option for infragenicular and crural reconstruction in the absence of autologous vein. The new anastomotic design was feasible and represents another adjunct to possibly improve patency of femorodistal bypass allografts.

Endovascular repair (ER) has been established as an alternative treatment option for aortic aneurysm (AA) in case of a suitable morphology. However, there are specific problems related to diagnostic and therapeutic management including potential complications of the new procedure.Between 8/1996 and 11/1999, 41 patients (6 female, mean age 67.9 (range 55-84) years) underwent an operation with the intention of ER. Modular, self-expanding stent-grafts were used for aorto-biiliacal (36), aorto-monoiliacal (1), and aorto-aortal (infrarenal-1, thoracic-1) aortic aneurysm (AA) exclusion. Postoperatively and during the follow-up period, diagnostic measures included clinical investigation, native X-ray, and color-coded Doppler sonography, and spiral computed tomography, and digital subtraction angiography. Results were analysed with special reference to complications and resulting therapeutic consequences.Technical success was achieved in 36/41 patients (87.8%). There were 2 primary distal endoleaks and 3 conversions because of lacking vascular access. Of 4 primary endoleaks, a proximal one was treated successfully by overstenting, a distal one was sealed off by iliac extension, and 2 distal ones were treated conservatively. Three secondary endoleaks, a proximal and 2 distal ones, required conversion each by retro- and transperitoneal approach. Presently, there are 4 endoleaks, with the maximal aortic diameter remaining constant except one case. Five secondary occlusions of an iliac limb (4) or artery (1) were treated by thrombectomy (1), PTA (1), PTA with overstenting (1), and cross-over (1) or ilicofemoral bypass (1). Three patients died of unrelated disease during the follow-up period.On condition of a critical indication, improved diagnostic management and further refinement of stent-graft systems ER constitutes an alternative, minimally invasive treatment option for AA. Long-term results must be obtained by means of continued prospective and comparative studies to definitely evaluate ER.

Schwannoma with angiosarcomatous change is a rare tumor, the clinical characteristics of which have not been analyzed.A patient with schwannoma with angiosarcoma arising in the midneck and clinically mimicking a carotid body paraganglioma is described with a literature review of all previously reported cases and a comparison of their clinical features with those of schwannoma with conventional malignant transformation and cases of neurofibroma and malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) with angiosarcoma.There are four reported cases, including the present case. Schwannoma with angiosarcoma affects older adults, mainly men. Three tumors arose from the vagus nerve in the neck. Three of the four angiosarcomas were epithelioid in type. Treatment in all cases was surgical resection followed by radiation and chemotherapy in one case and by radiation alone in another. One patient died with residual local angiosarcoma 5 months after the diagnosis. The remaining three patients were alive and disease free at 27 months, 43 months, and 90 months, with distant metastasis (after 15 months) reported only in the patient described in this case report.Schwannoma with angiosarcoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of presumed carotid body paragangliomas. Like angiosarcoma alone and schwannoma with conventional malignant transformation, but unlike cases of neurofibroma and MPNST with angiosarcoma, the patients are older adults, and there is a male prevalence. Schwannoma with angiosarcoma is capable of local spread with a fatal outcome and of distant metastasis, but follow-up strongly suggests that these patients have a better prognosis than patients with neurofibroma or MPNST with angiosarcoma. Recommended treatment is attempted complete surgical resection followed by radiation therapy and chemotherapy, if it can be tolerated by the patient.

We determined the sensitivity of computed tomography and color duplex ultrasonography in the detection and characterization of vascular complications in acute pancreatitis. The relationship of these complications with the etiology and activity of the disease was assessed. In a prospective study, 189 patients with acute pancreatitis seen in the Department of Gastroenterology. Charite Hospital in Berlin over a period of 38 months underwent color duplex ultrasonography every second day for 3 weeks and thereafter at least once a week for 2 months. Dynamic computed tomography was performed within 72 hours after admission, and follow-up computed tomography scans were obtained. In 45 patients (23%), at least temporary thromboses of portal venous vessels were demonstrated by color duplex ultrasonography. The incidence of venous thromboses was 30% in severe acute pancreatitis with fluid collections without necroses and 57% in necrotizing pancreatitis. In 27 of those 45 patients, a formation of collaterals was documented. In 13 patients, arterial pseudoaneurysms were demonstrated. Vascular complications were significantly more frequent in alcohol-induced than in gallstone-induced pancreatitis. Only 62% of all sonographically diagnosed thromboses and only 32% of all collaterals were demonstrated by computed tomography. The prevalence of vascular complications in acute pancreatitis was much higher as suspected. The risk of gastrointestinal bleeding was lower than previously reported. Color duplex sonography is the method of choice for the detection of vascular complications in acute pancreatitis.

Obstruction of the hepatic venous outflow with or without involvement of the vena cava results in the Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS). BCS may be limited to the liver but there is a variety of systemic disorders forming the etiology of BCS in the majority of cases. Surgery has a major impact on treatment of the BCS within a wide range of therapeutic strategies. The ultimate option of surgical management of the BCS is orthotopic liver transplantation (OLTx). The case of a patient with recurrent disease more than 5 years after OLTx for BCS due to paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria is analyzed with complete documentation. The literature is reviewed and the probable underlying causes for recurrent disease after OLTx for BCS are discussed including therapeutic consequences.