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The transarterial approach is generally feasible for endovascular treatment of internal iliac artery aneurysms (IIAAs). However, this approach becomes difficult in patients who have undergone exclusion surgery (proximal ligation). We report our experience of performing transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) using a retrograde approach from the deep femoral artery (DFA) for IIAAs that had enlarged after exclusion surgery. This case series includes 5 male patients (mean age, 57 years; range, 66-81 years) who underwent TAE of IIAAs between March 2015 and March 2024. The procedures were performed at a mean of 47 months (range, 33-108 months) after aortoiliac repair. Preoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) or CT during aortography was performed before TAE in all cases to evaluate the development of collateral pathways. TAE was performed via the DFA using a retrograde approach with coils and cyanoacrylate glue in all cases. The procedure was technically successful in all 5 patients (100%). Intra-aneurysmal packing and embolization of the branched vessel was performed in all cases. The follow-up ranged from 6 to 66 months. All patients developed gluteal claudication but no major complications occurred during the follow-up period. No cases of aneurysm dilatation have been recorded to date. In conclusion, retrograde TAE of excluded IIAAs was a feasible and effective treatment in these 5 patients, after evaluating the development of collateral pathways on pretreatment contrast-enhanced CT.

Despite the effectiveness of the retrograde approach for chronic total occlusion (CTO) lesions, there are no standardized tools to predict the success of retrograde percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The aim of this study was to develop a prediction tool to identify CTO lesions that will achieve successful retrograde PCI. This study evaluated data from 2,374 patients who underwent primary retrograde CTO-PCI and were enrolled in the Japanese CTO-PCI Expert Registry between January 2016 and December 2022 (NCT01889459). All observations were randomly assigned to the derivation and validation cohorts at a 2:1 ratio. The prediction score for guidewire failure in retrograde CTO-PCI was determined by assigning 1 point for each factor and summing all accrued points. The JR-CTO score (moderate–severe calcification, tortuosity, Werner collateral connection grade ≤1, and nonseptal collateral channel) demonstrated a C-statistic for guidewire failure of 0.72 (95% CI: 0.67-0.76) and 0.71 (95% CI: 0.64-0.77) in the derivation and validation cohorts, respectively. Patients with lower scores had higher guidewire and technical success rates and decreased guidewire crossing time and procedural time (P < 0.01). The JR-CTO (Japanese Retrograde Chronic Total Occlusion) score, a simple 4-item score that predicts successful guidewire crossing in patients undergoing retrograde CTO-PCI, has the potential to support clinical decision-making for the retrograde approach. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is not uncommon to encounter retrograde microcatheter-uncrossable lesions in retro-recanalization of Chronic Total Occlusion (CTO) cases, existing solutions were time-consuming or complicated to operate. Therefore, the present study aimed to propose and evaluate the feasibility, safety of a novel technique termed Active Pulling retrograde microcatheter crossing Technique (APT) during retrograde CTO percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Methods: We retrospectively collected retrograde CTO-PCI cases from February 2017 to April 2023, only cases with the retrograde wire successfully crossed the CTO lesion were analyzed. The baseline clinical characteristics, angiographic characteristics, procedural details, and in-hospital major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) were compared. Results: A total of 80 CTO cases were divided into the APT group and the non-APT group according to whether the APT was applied in the procedure. The APT group had a higher rate of device success than the non-APT group (100% vs. 85%, P = 0.013), with shorter duration (5.3 ± 3.8 vs. 18.6 ± 5.9 min, P < 0.001) and a smaller number of retrograde microcatheters were used (P < 0.001). In the APT group, the average air kerma radiation exposure was lower (2.7 ± 1.2 vs. 4.3 ± 1.7 Gy, P < 0.001), the fluoroscopy time (69.0 ± 15.0 vs. 88.1 ± 18.9 min, P < 0.001) and the procedure time (116.2 ± 22.2 vs. 131.6 ± 28.7 min, P = 0.009) was shorter than the non-APT group. The technical success rate of both groups reached 100% while the procedure success rate was higher in the APT group than the non-APT group (100% vs. 85%, P = 0.13). Conclusions: The APT is an easy and safe technique that can greatly improve procedural efficiency without adding other instruments, and allows the retrograde microcatheter to quickly crossing the CTO body after successful retrograde wire externalization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Retrograde recanalization demonstrated to be one of the most significant amendments of the technique and has recently become a vital complement to the classical antegrade approach in chronic total occlusion recanalization. Interventionists embark on this technique in complex lesions, in which the antegrade approach is not feasible or has failed previously or as a primary approach in certain situations. The retrograde approach maximizes success rate with a low complication profile, despite frequent utilization in the most complex patients. Since its inceptive description, important iterations have been established which render this technique safer, faster, and more successful.

We report a case of postoperative pseudoaneurysm, successfully treated with selective arterial embolization, using a steerable microcatheter and triaxial system via retrograde approach. A pseudoaneurysm was detected in the dorsal pancreatic artery, a severely narrow and steeply inverted branch of the superior mesenteric artery, making microcatheter insertion via the antegrade approach challenging. However, a steerable microcatheter was advanced beyond the orifice and the tip was reversed, changing the route to retrograde allowing for easy insertion of the microguidewire. Subsequently, a small microcatheter was advanced beyond the pseudoaneurysm into the dorsal pancreatic artery, and arterial embolization was successfully completed without complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Retrograde approach technique has been challenging in percutaneous coronary interventional treatment of chronic total occlusion (CTO) coronary disease. The present study endeavors to determine a novel Chinese scoring system for predicting successful collateral channels traverse via retrograde approach. Methods The demographic characteristics and angiographic characteristics of 309 CTO patient were analyzed by univariable and multivariable analysis for selecting potential predictors. And the nomogram was used to establish the scoring system. Then it was evaluated by the internal and external validation. Results The predictors of Age, Connections between collateral channels and recipient vessels, and Channel Tortuosity (ACT) were identified with univariable and multivariable analysis and employed to the ACT score system. With acceptable calibrations, the area under curve of the scoring system and the external validation were 0.826 and 0.816 respectively. Based on score, the predictors were divided into three risk categories and it showed a consistent prediction power in the validation cohort. Conclusions The novel Chinese ACT score is a reliable tool for predicting successful retrograde collateral traverse.

Abstract Background Although majority of cases with chronic total occlusion (CTO) in femoro-popliteal lesion were treated with antegrade approach only, some lesions require alternative approach due to its complexity. Bi-directional approach is useful on endovascular therapy (EVT) for CTO; however guidewire passage through the lesion is impossible in some challenging cases. The present case shows a successful re-entry technique utilizing two snare catheters from an antegrade and retrograde access site (double snare piecing technique). Case presentation A 79-year-old woman with right leg intermittent claudication (Rutherford category IV), who had undergone unsuccessful EVT for popliteal CTO, required another EVT for the worsening symptom. Following the failed conventional crossing technique (wire knuckle technique, intravascular-ultrasound-guided wiring, and controlled antegrade and retrograde subintimal tracking technique), two snare catheters were placed and the snare loops were pierced by a puncture needle percutaneously. After an 0.014 wire was inserted into the needle, the needle was withdrawn. The wire was pulled from the retrograde side and was externalized. Then, the antegrade snare catheter was pulled and externalized, to make the wire across the lesion. After that, a microcatheter was advanced along the externalized wire from the retrograde side and cross the lesion. The wire was replaced with a new wire, which completely created pull-through system. After the hemostasis by balloon inflation and lesion preparation, this procedure was completed with an endoluminal-covered stent and two inter-woven stents. The re-entry site was covered by the inter-woven stent. Her symptoms improved after the procedure, and the lesion has not developed restenosis at 2-years follow-up. Conclusions This re-entry technique of puncturing two snare loops (double snare piercing technique) might be effective for achieving successful passage through challenging femoropopliteal CTO cases.

A case of a new technique for branched endovascular aneurysm repair with a retrograde approach and ostial stenosis of the target vessel is reported. An angioplasty balloon was placed within the target vessel and used to give added stability to catheter advancement to place the stiff guidewire needed for placement of a bridging stent graft. In brief, a standard guidewire was first placed inside the target vessel through the retrograde approach. Next, the balloon was placed from outside the stent graft, again through a contralateral retrograde approach. Then, the angioplasty balloon was inflated, and a support catheter was advanced to the balloon and then slowly deflated to allow the catheter to advance. Finally, the stiff guidewire was placed. Subsequently, the bridging stent was placed and deployed. This technique is feasible and can be used in selected cases to use a retrograde approach when ostial stenosis of the target vessel is present.

Placenta Accreta Spectrum disorders (PASd) refer to the range of pathologic adherence of placenta associated with high maternal morbidity and mortality due to severe and sometimes life-threatening hemorrhage at the time of delivery. The aim of this study is to describe the surgical technique of extraperitoneal retrograde hysterectomy, which has allowed a reduction of blood transfusions compared to patients who underwent classical post-partum hysterectomy. We collected data from twelve patients with antenatal diagnosis of PASd treated between 2018 and 2021 with an extra-peritoneal hysterectomy using a posterior retrograde approach and we compared them to patients who underwent classical hysterectomy for suspected PASd, treated between 2007 and 2017. The classical hysterectomy group presented a higher frequency of blood and plasma transfusion compared to the extraperitoneal hysterectomy group. In particular, classical hysterectomy resulted in an independent risk factor for transfusion, with an increment of 6.6 times of risk. Even if future studies are required, we think that extraperitoneal hysterectomy could be a safe option in case of PASd, considering that classical hysterectomy compared to this approach increases, in our population, the risk of blood and plasma transfusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Retrograde approach technique has been challenging in percutaneous coronary interventional treatment of chronic total occlusion (CTO) coronary disease. The present study endeavors to determine a novel Chinese scoring system for predicting successful collateral channels traverse via retrograde approach. Methods: The demographic characteristics and angiographic characteristics of 309 CTO patient were analyzed by univariable and multivariable analysis for selecting potential predictors. And the nomogram was used to establish the scoring system. Then it was evaluated by the internal and external validation. Results: The predictors of Age, Connections between collateral channels and recipient vessels, and Channel Tortuosity (ACT) were identified with univariable and multivariable analysis and employed to the ACT score system. With acceptable calibrations, the area under curve of the scoring system and the external validation were 0.826 and 0.816 respectively. Based on score, the predictors were divided into three risk categories and it showed a consistent prediction power in the validation cohort. Conclusions: The novel Chinese ACT score is a reliable tool for predicting successful retrograde collateral traverse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Although majority of cases with chronic total occlusion (CTO) in femoro-popliteal lesion were treated with antegrade approach only, some lesions require alternative approach due to its complexity. Bi-directional approach is useful on endovascular therapy (EVT) for CTO; however guidewire passage through the lesion is impossible in some challenging cases. The present case shows a successful re-entry technique utilizing two snare catheters from an antegrade and retrograde access site (double snare piecing technique). Case presentation: A 79-year-old woman with right leg intermittent claudication (Rutherford category IV), who had undergone unsuccessful EVT for popliteal CTO, required another EVT for the worsening symptom. Following the failed conventional crossing technique (wire knuckle technique, intravascular-ultrasound-guided wiring, and controlled antegrade and retrograde subintimal tracking technique), two snare catheters were placed and the snare loops were pierced by a puncture needle percutaneously. After an 0.014 wire was inserted into the needle, the needle was withdrawn. The wire was pulled from the retrograde side and was externalized. Then, the antegrade snare catheter was pulled and externalized, to make the wire across the lesion. After that, a microcatheter was advanced along the externalized wire from the retrograde side and cross the lesion. The wire was replaced with a new wire, which completely created pull-through system. After the hemostasis by balloon inflation and lesion preparation, this procedure was completed with an endoluminal-covered stent and two inter-woven stents. The re-entry site was covered by the inter-woven stent. Her symptoms improved after the procedure, and the lesion has not developed restenosis at 2-years follow-up. Conclusions: This re-entry technique of puncturing two snare loops (double snare piercing technique) might be effective for achieving successful passage through challenging femoropopliteal CTO cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to present an endovascular management of a type IIIc endoleak (EL) in a patient with migration of the bridging stent graft of the celiac trunk (CT) after branched aortic aneurysm repair with retrograde cannulation of the superior mesenteric artery (SMA). Technique: The therapy was applied in a 62-year-old man who underwent a branched EVAR 2 years ago. Meanwhile, the patient was treated due to type Ia EL 6 months ago. The patient suffered in the last days from unclear hemorrhage clinically correlated with weakness. In the computed tomography angiography (CTA), an EL IIIc with a migration of the bridging stent graft from the CT branch was displayed. As vascular access, the left axillar artery was used. Due to the misaligned bridging stent graft, an antegrade cannulation was impossible, so cannulation was performed retrograde through the SMA using pancreaticoduodenal and gastroduodenal arteries. Thereafter, the EL could be repaired with bridging stent grafts. The postinterventional control showed a satisfying reconstruction without EL or embolization. Conclusion: Most of the complications such as type IIIc EL after complex endovascular repair can also be treated endovascularly. This sophisticated treatment requires that necessary materials and experience are available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: The retrograde femoral approach is an established technique for implantation of nails for leg lengthening and correction and in cases of distal femoral fractures. The purpose of this study was to determine the 10-year outcome of this technique by analyzing the clinical long-term effects and radiological status of the knee after leg lengthening via a retrograde femoral approach. Patients and methods: This retrospective single-center study included 13 patients (median age at surgery 17 [range 15–20] years) who underwent unilateral, retrograde, femoral lengthening with a motorized nail. Outcome measurements were graded variables of the SF-36, ISKD score, and Lysholm score. MRI of both knees was performed in all patients. MRI was evaluated for the presence of degenerative changes and compared with the healthy contralateral knee. Cartilage condition was graded according to the International Cartilage Repair Society (ICRS) scoring system. Results: All patients were pain-free and had a full range of motion 10 (range 10.0–12.2) years after surgery. All postoperative knees showed fibrosis of Hoffa’s fat pad and moderate to severe cartilage defects (ICRS Grade 2–4) of the trochlear groove (nail entry site). 6 out of 13 operated knees exhibited retropatellar cartilage defects. Conclusion: Our study showed that patients were pain-free, but cartilage defects at the entry point and arthrofibrosis at Hoffa’s fat pad were observed without causing clinical impairment.

Complete tracheal obliteration after tracheostomy remains a considerable challenge for otolaryngologists and pulmonologists. Here, we report for the first time a novel method of interventional bronchoscopy to successfully recanalize complete tracheal obliteration. Three patients with suprastomal tracheal obliteration and tracheostomy dependence were referred to our center for further management. Using interventional bronchoscopy, a TBNA needle was retrogradely inserted from the stoma to locate the original passage through the occlusion, and then its stylet was left as a guide wire for the sequential dilations. Once the tracheal lumen was restored, endoprosthesis would be implanted to maintain the airway patency. All cases achieved successful recanalization with effortless breathing after the treatment and restored phonation. Bronchoscopic retrograde recanalization using a TBNA needle is a promising and effective treatment for complete tracheal obliteration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Radial artery occlusion (RAO) is one of the common complications after coronary intervention via the conventional radial artery approach. The purpose of the study was to explore the safety and feasibility of retrograde recanalization of the occluded radial artery via a distal radial artery (DRA) approach. Methods: Combined with the practice of our centre and a literature review, we summarized the procedure of retrograde recanalization of RAO, success rate, and complications. Results: A total of 14 of 15 patients with 15 pieces of occluded radial arteries were successfully recanalized via the DRA in our centre. In the 15 occluded vessels, 11 vessels (73.3%) had total occlusion and 4 vessels (26.7%) had functional occlusion. Four of 15 occluded vessels were acute occlusions. Two acute RAOs were only treated with aspiration via sheath, 11 RAOs with balloon angioplasty, and 2 RAOs with both, respectively. In 6 patients, cardiac catheterization was carried out via the DRA after recanalizing the RAO. A total of 10 studies reporting the results of recanalization of RAO via the DRA were systematically retrieved in the present study. In 3 case series, the number of cases was more than 5, and the success rate of recanalization was more than 85.7%. Two studies reported complications, including dissection in one case, hematoma in 2 cases, and pain in the forearm during angioplasty. Conclusions: Recanalization of the occluded radial artery via the DRA was safe and effective. When repeat cardiac catheterization was required, recanalization of the RAO and subsequent coronary angiography or intervention through the ipsilateral radial artery approach was feasible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Angioscopy plays an important role providing much information regarding vessel surfaces as macro-pathology in living patients. However, its viewing field is sometimes limited due to insufficient removal of blood flow and a catheter that cannot be controlled to view the intended direction. Angioscopy from a retrograde approach was found to overcome these limitations. Case summary A 68-year-old man was admitted to our hospital with acute intermittent claudication for 2 weeks. He was diagnosed with acute limb ischaemia (ALI) in his left superficial femoral artery, and revascularization by endovascular treatment was attempted. A bi-directional approach was needed for successful revascularization with thrombus aspiration and angioplasty. Subsequent angioscopic examination from the retrograde approach visualized a clear and adequate image of the vessel and helped identify the aetiology of the case as on-site thrombosis at an atherosclerotic lesion. Discussion It is important to understand the aetiology of ALI in each case for the management of the patient. Angioscopy can be a useful modality to identify the aetiology. It was found that retrograde angioscopy has several advantages over antegrade angioscopy in clear visualization and intentional control of the angioscopy catheter. This methodology may help us identify the aetiology of ALI by evaluating the vessel walls of patients with peripheral artery disease more precisely. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dual-lumen microcatheters (DLMC) are utilized in challenging wiring scenarios as well as for contrast and medication injections. Nonetheless, lesion characterization remains extremely challenging in many cases. We describe a DLMC-facilitated technique which can assist in locating the distal anastomosis while navigating an occluded bypass graft during retrograde chronic total occlusion recanalization, as well as in the differential diagnosis of abrupt vessel closure. This "DLMC Pullback Injection" technique is performed by injecting contrast through the over-the-wire port of the DLMC, while the latter is quickly pulled back across the region of interest in a dynamic fashion. We believe this technique has the potential to solve challenging scenarios and to enrich the complex percutaneous coronary intervention operator's armamentarium., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

The transarterial approach is generally feasible for endovascular treatment of internal iliac artery aneurysms (IIAAs). However, this approach becomes difficult in patients who have undergone exclusion surgery (proximal ligation). We report our experience of performing transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) using a retrograde approach from the deep femoral artery (DFA) for IIAAs that had enlarged after exclusion surgery. This case series includes 5 male patients (mean age, 57 years; range, 66-81 years) who underwent TAE of IIAAs between March 2015 and March 2024. The procedures were performed at a mean of 47 months (range, 33-108 months) after aortoiliac repair. Preoperative contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) or CT during aortography was performed before TAE in all cases to evaluate the development of collateral pathways. TAE was performed via the DFA using a retrograde approach with coils and cyanoacrylate glue in all cases. The procedure was technically successful in all 5 patients (100%). Intra-aneurysmal packing and embolization of the branched vessel was performed in all cases. The follow-up ranged from 6 to 66 months. All patients developed gluteal claudication but no major complications occurred during the follow-up period. No cases of aneurysm dilatation have been recorded to date. In conclusion, retrograde TAE of excluded IIAAs was a feasible and effective treatment in these 5 patients, after evaluating the development of collateral pathways on pretreatment contrast-enhanced CT., (© 2024 Published by Elsevier Inc. on behalf of University of Washington.)

Background: Chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) can be performed using an antegrade-only (AO) approach or a retrograde approach (RA). Whether an RA carries a higher risk of complications needs further investigation., Methods: The Canadian CTO PCI (CCTOP) was a multicenter, prospective, investigator-initiated cohort study conducted at 6 experienced centers across Canada between March 2014 and October 2019. Patients who underwent an RA were compared to AO patients. The primary endpoint was in-hospital major adverse cardiac events (MACE), defined as death, any post-PCI cardiac enzyme elevation, urgent revascularization, and tamponade. A multivariable analysis was performed to control for potential confounders., Results: A total of 1033 patients were included in the study, and an RA was used in 48.4% of the cases. The RA was associated with higher lesions complexity (J-CTO score 2.7 ± 1.1 vs 2.3 ± 1.1, P < .001) and lower technical success (81.2% vs 91.5%, P < .001). The risk of in-hospital MACE was higher with the RA (10.2% vs 4.7%, P < .001), and all deaths occurred in the RA group (0.8% vs 0%, P = .038). In the multivariable model, the RA remained associated with an increased risk of MACE (OR, 2.25; 95% CI, 1.26 to 4.02)., Conclusions: Our experience confirms that the RA is associated with an independent increased risk of in-hospital MACE when compared with an AO approach.

Objectives: To analyse the feasibility, safety and procedural outcomes of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for chronic total occlusions (CTO) through retrograde approach using single catheter. Methods: Our study was a retrospective observational study that enrolled patients who underwent retrograde CTO PCI using a single catheter between June 2016 and February 2020. Clinical success was defined as successful completion of CTO PCI without associated in-hospital major clinical complications like death, myocardial infarction, stroke or urgent revascularisation. Technical success was defined as successful completion of CTO PCI using single catheter and minimum diameter stenosis of

Endovascular revascularization of a chronically occluded internal carotid artery (ICA) is challenging because the occlusive segment can be long and tortuous. A case is presented of a successful recanalization of a chronically occluded ICA by retrograde passing of a guidewire from the intracranial ICA to the cervical ICA via the posterior communicating artery. This case suggests that a retrograde approach for reopening an occluded artery may be useful during neurovascular interventions, similar to percutaneous coronary interventions. In this patient, daily transient ischemic attacks disappeared after successful recanalization of the ICA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interrupted inferior vena cava (IVC) with azygous continuation provides technical challenge in many percutaneous cardiac interventions. They are performed via the femoral venous access route. We describe four such cases in whom, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) device closure was done in interrupted IVC. All the four cases were done using the femoral route. Two cases were done via retrograde approach through femoral artery access, in which one was closed with a muscular VSD device and the other with a Gianturco coil. The introduction of newer closure devices helps in the retrograde approach. Two cases were done via anterograde approach through the femoral venous route, with a loop through the azygous vein. One child had transient bradycardia due to cardiac stretch which normalized after the device deployment and introducer system removal. Thus, we describe different femoral approaches in interrupted IVC patients for PDA closure, with the difficulties faced and the complications managed.

BackgroundWith the development of specialized equipment and the retrograde technique, success rates for percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of chronic total occlusions (CTOs) have increased from 60 to 90% in the past 10 years. Performing PCI via a collateral channel from the contralateral artery, using two guiding catheters, is usually the preferred approach to retrograde CTO-PCI. In the case described in this report, only the ipsilateral septal collateral artery from the proximal occluded left anterior descending (LAD) artery was available. The procedure can be performed successfully from radial artery access using a single guiding catheter.Case SummaryA 57-year-old patient, with a history of anterior and inferior myocardial infarction and previous PCI, underwent a planned coronary arteriography due to his complaints of typical angina symptoms. Coronary angiography revealed stent occlusion located mid-LAD and severe in-stent restenosis in the distal right coronary artery (RCA). A proximal septal branch was supplying the distal LAD retrogradely. After repeated failed attempts at antegrade PCI for the LAD's CTO, the retrograde approach was tried. This intervention finally succeeded through the ipsilateral septal collateral. It was performed via a single radial-artery access throughout the whole process. Post-operatively, the patient had no complications and was stable at 1-year follow-up.ConclusionThe transradial approach to retrograde PCI for CTO via an ipsilateral septal collateral using a single guiding catheter is feasible and safe in appropriately selected cases.

Background: Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by tandem intracranial and extracranial occlusions is not rare. However, optimal strategy between antegrade (extracranial first) or retrograde (intracranial first) approaches still remains elusive. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to compare the two approaches to provide updated clinical evidence of strategy selection. Methods: PubMed, Ovid, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched for literature comparing antegrade and retrograde approaches for patients with AIS with concomitant tandem occlusions. Outcomes including successful reperfusion [Throbolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) 2b−3] and 90-day favorable outcome [modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0–2], any intracerebral hemorrhage, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, procedural complications, and mortality were evaluated. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and illustrated in the Funnel plot. Heterogeneity was assessed by I 2 statistic. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were also performed. Results: A total of 11 studies accounting 1,517 patients were included. 831 (55%) patients were treated with an antegrade approach and 686 (45%) patients were treated with the retrograde approach. A higher successful reperfusion rate was achieved in retrograde group than that of antegrade group [83.8 vs. 78.0%; odds ratio (OR): 0.63, 95% CI: 0.40–0.99, p = 0.04]. 90-day favorable outcome (mRS 0–2 at 90 days) also showed significantly higher in retrograde group compared with antegrade group (47.3 vs. 40.2%; OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.58–0.89, p = 0.002). The incidence of any intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, 90-day mortality, and other complications did not differ between two groups. Conclusion: In AIS with tandem occlusions, the retrograde approach might achieve a higher successful reperfusion rate and better functional outcome with a comparable safety profile when compared with an antegrade approach. Further prospective controlled studies with more meticulous design and a higher level of evidence are needed to confirm these results. Systematic Review Registration: "PROSPERO" database (CRD 42020199093), https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract Background The iliac occlusive disease is usually treated with endovascular procedures in recent years. The effectiveness of different crossing approaches for these occlusions is not precisely known. We performed a retrospective study to explore the optimal crossing approach (antegrade versus retrograde) for iliac artery chronic total occlusions (CTOs) and to examine the long-term outcomes. Materials and methods We performed a study on 107 patients (116 iliac occlusive lesions, mean age 64.0 ± 11.1, 88 men) who underwent an iliac CTO endovascular intervention attempted with the use of both crossing strategies but were managed with one final crossing approach between August 2012 and August 2018. Baseline data, procedural characteristics, and outcomes were described. A Cox proportional hazard model and Kaplan-Meier method were developed to assess the differences in the two crossing approaches in terms of the 1-year and 5-year primary patency rates, target lesion revascularization (TLR) and major adverse limb events (MALEs). Results Common iliac artery (CIA) lesions were more likely to be crossed successfully in the retrograde direction (6.8% for antegrade vs. 20.9% for retrograde, p = 0.005), while lesions in the CIA/ external iliac artery (EIA) were more prone to be crossed successfully in the antegrade direction (58.9% for antegrade vs. 39.5% for retrograde, p = 0.016). There were no significant differences in the crossing approach for EIA lesions between the two groups. The two crossing approaches were associated with similar estimates of 1- and 5-year primary patency, TLR and MALE rates. Conclusion The antegrade approach was associated with a higher rate of successful crossing in CIA/EIA CTO lesions, while the CIA-only CTOs were more likely to be crossed successfully with the retrograde approach.

Abstract Background There are still cases that are difficult to treat for femoropopliteal chronic total occlusion (CTO). The Outback® Elite catheter is effective re-entry device to treat such kind of difficult cases, however, it might be difficult to use the Outback® Elite catheter antegradely in cases with severely calcified lesions. In this case, we performed EVT using the Outback Elite® catheter via the retrograde popliteal approach. Case presentation We report a case of a 77-year-old male with end-stage renal disease who presented with pain and cyanosis of his left foot. Control angiography showed total occlusion from the middle of the left superficial femoral artery to the proximal portion of the popliteal artery. The CTO lesion was severely calcified, which prevented the antegrade advancement of any guidewire. Retrograde popliteal puncture was performed with the patient in the supine position. After intentional retrograde subintimal wiring, the Outback® Elite catheter was advanced via the retrograde approach after the identification of a suitable re-entry site using intravascular ultrasound. After wire crossing, one nitinol stent was deployed and sufficient antegrade flow was achieved without any complications. Conclusions Using Outback® Elite from retrograde should be considered in cases where antegrade advancement fails and bidirectional wiring cannot pass through the CTO lesion.

Introduction Ureteral stents (double‐J stents) are widely used in urology to prevent or relieve ureteral obstruction and have become an integral part of urological practice. We have often experienced cases in which a stent cannot be removed due to encrustation. Case presentation We describe the case of a 54‐year‐old male, who presented with a severely encrusted ureteral stent, which had only been inserted for one month until second surgery for renal stones. The ureteral stent could not be removed as it had become encrusted with renal stones. The encrusted ureteral stent was successfully removed by cutting it with a Ho:YAG laser using 4.5/6.5‐Fr semi‐rigid and flexible ureteroscopes retrogradely. The patient subsequently remained stone‐free without any complication. Conclusion We experienced a case in which an encrusted ureteral stent was successfully removed retrogradely. Technological advancements in endourology will hopefully make the treatment of such cases safer and less invasive.

Within 10 years following a coronary artery bypass graft (CABG), only 60% of vein grafts and 90% of internal mammary artery (IMA) grafts remain patent. Chronic total occlusion (CTO) in patients after a CABG exhibits more advanced stable atherosclerosis. Although the precise mechanism of atherosclerosis in these patients is unknown, several clinical studies have reported that atherosclerotic progression occurs more rapidly in grafted arteries than in non-grafted arteries. These data support the fact that the IMA has a favourable metabolic effect not only in the bypass, but also in the bypassed artery, which is defined by nitric oxide products. The occlusion frequency of the initial stenotic artery in the proximal or distal segment was ~22% after application of the IMA, and on average 48% after an autovenous bypass. In multivariate analyses, bypass interventions are independently associated with higher hospital mortality and peri-operative complications. Mortality was 2.6% if artery recanalisation was successful, 5.2% in the case of partial success, and 8.2% in the case of failure. However, due to the difficulty of access, spastic reactions, the small diameter of the artery, and a large area of myocardium that feeds the IMA, use of the IMA for CTO recanalisation is limited. A case study of CTO intervention is used to describe the retrograde approach to CTO of the left anterior descending coronary artery through the IMA and diagonal branch in a patient after a CABG 10 years ago. Two microcatheters were used, and the operation was successfully completed in two stages because of unstable patient condition.

Background: Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by tandem intracranial and extracranial occlusions is not rare. However, optimal strategy between antegrade (extracranial first) or retrograde (intracranial first) approaches still remains elusive. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to compare the two approaches to provide updated clinical evidence of strategy selection.Methods: PubMed, Ovid, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched for literature comparing antegrade and retrograde approaches for patients with AIS with concomitant tandem occlusions. Outcomes including successful reperfusion [Throbolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) 2b−3] and 90-day favorable outcome [modified Rankin Scale (mRS) 0–2], any intracerebral hemorrhage, symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage, procedural complications, and mortality were evaluated. The risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and illustrated in the Funnel plot. Heterogeneity was assessed by I2 statistic. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were also performed.Results: A total of 11 studies accounting 1,517 patients were included. 831 (55%) patients were treated with an antegrade approach and 686 (45%) patients were treated with the retrograde approach. A higher successful reperfusion rate was achieved in retrograde group than that of antegrade group [83.8 vs. 78.0%; odds ratio (OR): 0.63, 95% CI: 0.40–0.99, p = 0.04]. 90-day favorable outcome (mRS 0–2 at 90 days) also showed significantly higher in retrograde group compared with antegrade group (47.3 vs. 40.2%; OR: 0.72, 95% CI: 0.58–0.89, p = 0.002). The incidence of any intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage, 90-day mortality, and other complications did not differ between two groups.Conclusion: In AIS with tandem occlusions, the retrograde approach might achieve a higher successful reperfusion rate and better functional outcome with a comparable safety profile when compared with an antegrade approach. Further prospective controlled studies with more meticulous design and a higher level of evidence are needed to confirm these results.Systematic Review Registration: “PROSPERO” database (CRD 42020199093), https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/.

Background: Chronic total occlusion (CTO) lesions are the most challenging subset of coronary lesions. For lesions with a failed antegrade approach, the initial retrograde, followed by a combined retrograde and antegrade approach, remains the mainstay of therapy., Objective: The study evaluated a technique of initial retrograde followed by an antegrade approach to treat lesions with a failed antegrade approach., Methods: We have adopted this technique to treat 31 CTO lesions with a failed antegrade approach, where a floppy wire was advanced antegrade through the tract created by a retrograde balloon advanced over the retrograde wire (antegrade wire tracking of the retrograde tract (ATRT)), which was advanced into the aorta retrogradely., Result: In 31 patients with failed antegrade approaches, the ATRT technique was tried, which was successful in 25 patients (the success rate was 80.6%). There was a failure to cross the microchannel in four patients, although angiographically, it looked promising. In two patients, it was impossible to advance the microcatheter or the smallest profile balloon retrogradely until the entire length of the CTO body. So, a reverse controlled antegrade and retrograde subintimal tracking (CART) was performed on these two patients excluded from the study., Conclusion: ATRT is a useful technique for CTO percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) for patients with failed antegrade approaches with acceptable success rates. The procedure is safe in terms of procedural complications., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (IPGME&R) Review Board issued approval IPGM/IRB/2021/234. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Das et al.)

Background: The use of a commercial snare for retrograde chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is time-consuming and expensive. This study aimed to evaluate the benefits and complications of a novel modified homemade snare (MHS) for retrograde CTO-PCI., Methods: This retrospective cohort study included patients with CTO who underwent retrograde PCI with guidewire snaring between January 2017 and June 2022 at Beijing Anzhen Hospital. The patients were divided into the MHS and gooseneck snare (GS) groups according to the devices used for externalization. Clinical, procedural, and angiographic data were collected., Results: Ninety patients (46 with MHS and 44 with GS) were included. There was no significant difference in the location of the CTO vessel between the MHS and GS groups, and the target CTO vessel was mainly located in the right coronary artery (RCA) in both groups (73.9% and 68.2% respectively). There were no significant differences in the J-CTO (Multicenter CTO Registry in Japan) and PROGRESS-CTO (Prospective Global Registry for the Study of Chronic Total Occlusion Intervention) scores between the two groups. More patients in the MHS group had lesions with ambiguous proximal caps compared with the GS group (54.3% vs . 31.8%, P=0.04). Retrograde wire crossing technique was used more in the GS group (54.5% vs. 41.3%, P=0.04), while reverse-controlled antegrade and retrograde subintimal tracking (CART) technique was used more in the MHS group (58.7% vs. 45.5%, P=0.037). The mean guidewire capture time was shorter in the MHS group than in the GS group (2.7±0.6 vs . 3.4±0.7 min, P<0.001). One case of delayed pericardial tamponade was observed in the MHS group. No other complications occurred., Conclusions: MHS appears to facilitate externalization in retrograde PCI for complex CTO lesions., Competing Interests: Conflicts of Interest: All authors have completed the ICMJE uniform disclosure form (available at https://jtd.amegroups.com/article/view/10.21037/jtd-24-610/coif). L.Z. reports funding support from the Cultivation Fund of Beijing Municipal Administration of Hospitals (No. PZ2021008). The other authors have no conflicts of interest to declare., (2024 Journal of Thoracic Disease. All rights reserved.)

Background: There is limited data on retrograde chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) via ipsilateral epicardial collaterals (IEC)., Aims: To compare the clinical and angiographic characteristics, and outcomes of retrograde CTO PCI via IEC versus other collaterals in a large multicenter registry., Methods: Observational cohort study from the Prospective Global registry for the study of Chronic Total Occlusion Intervention (PROGRESS-CTO)., Results: Of 4466 retrograde cases performed between 2012 and 2023, crossing through IEC was attempted in 191 (4.3%) cases with 50% wiring success. The most common target vessel in the IEC group was the left circumflex (50%), in comparison to other retrograde cases, where the right coronary artery was most common (70%). The Japanese CTO score was similar between the two groups (3.13 ± 1.23 vs. 3.06 ± 1.06, p = 0.456); however, the IEC group had a higher Prospective Global Registry for the Study of Chronic Total Occlusion Intervention (PROGRESS-CTO) score (1.95 ± 1.02 vs. 1.27 ± 0.92, p < 0.0001). The most used IEC guidewire was the SUOH 03 (39%), and the most frequently used microcatheter was the Caravel (43%). Dual injection was less common in IEC cases (66% vs. 89%, p < 0.0001). Technical (76% vs. 79%, p = 0.317) and procedural success rates (74% vs. 79%, p = 0.281) were not different between the two groups. However, IEC cases had a higher procedural complications rate (25.8% vs. 16.4%, p = 0.0008), including perforations (17.3% vs. 9.0%, p = 0.0001), pericardiocentesis (3.1% vs. 1.2%, p = 0.018), and dissection/thrombus of the donor vessel (3.7% vs. 1.2%, p = 0.002)., Conclusion: The use of IEC for retrograde CTO PCI was associated with similar technical and procedural success rates when compared with other retrograde cases, but higher incidence of periprocedural complications., (© 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Objectives: We present the technical description and preliminary results of a hybrid approach for the treatment of chronic total occlusions of superficial femoral artery in the setting of critical limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI). Methods: A retrospective analysis of selected case series was performed. A trans-popliteal hybrid technique was carried out in seven limbs (six patients). Open exposure of above-the-knee popliteal artery was performed over its maximum calcification zone. After retrograde recanalization and graft-stenting of the entire superficial femoral artery, endarterectomy of the popliteal artery was performed for debulking and widening of the distal landing zone of the endoprosthesis. The latter is included in the bovine patch suture to avoid leaving a segment untreated. Results: Technical success, haemodynamic and clinical improvement were achieved in all procedures. Median length of treated occlusion was 19.8 cm. After a mean follow-up of 12 months (range 6–26 months), the primary patency was 85.7% (only one asymptomatic occlusion occurred). There were no major cardiovascular or limb adverse events. No re-interventions were required. Conclusion: This less-invasive, one-incision technique is safe and effective for the restoration of in-line flow from groin to ankle, currently recommended in CLTI revascularization. It could be especially useful in highly calcified popliteal artery lesions, hostile groins or those at high risk of infection and in cases of vein absence for bypass surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sinus of Valsalva aneurysm (SVA) is a rare cardiac anomaly that can undergo spontaneous rupture into other cardiac chambers or the pericardial space. A ruptured SVA has a very poor prognosis with high morbidity and mortality. These aneurysms often present as a rupture from the right coronary sinus into the right ventricle. Transcatheter closure has become an effective alternative to surgical treatment. However, it has been rarely reported in patients after ventricular defect repair in the past. We here describe a 3-year-and-3-month-old boy who was found to have a ruptured sinus of Valsalva. He underwent surgical closure of a ventricular septal defect at the age of 2 months, which occurred in the non-coronary sinus (NCS) and ruptured into the right atrium. We successfully occluded the ruptured sinus of Valsalva with a ventricular septal occluder.

Interrupted inferior vena cava (IVC) with azygous continuation provides technical challenge in many percutaneous cardiac interventions. They are performed via the femoral venous access route. We describe four such cases in whom, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) device closure was done in interrupted IVC. All the four cases were done using the femoral route. Two cases were done via retrograde approach through femoral artery access, in which one was closed with a muscular VSD device and the other with a Gianturco coil. The introduction of newer closure devices helps in the retrograde approach. Two cases were done via anterograde approach through the femoral venous route, with a loop through the azygous vein. One child had transient bradycardia due to cardiac stretch which normalized after the device deployment and introducer system removal. Thus, we describe different fem Thus, we describe different femoral approaches in interrupted IVC patients for PDA closure, with the difficulties faced and the complications managed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Clinical Impact: When the standard endovascular crossing maneuvers have failed during CLTI recanalization procedures and the distal below-the-knee or proximal below-the-ankle retrograde access is not possible due to chronic occlusion of the vessels, mastering the more distal and complex retrograde BTA punctures may be advantageous.There are scanty reports regarding the retrograde puncture of the mid and forefoot vessels. The aim of this article is to review different tips and tricks related to these techniques to help operators to apply them in specific scenarios to eventually improve procedural success rate., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.