bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Successful Management of Carotid Stenosis in a High-Risk Population at an Inner-City Hospital
Authors: Maldonado Thomas S. , Moreno Ricardo , Gagne Paul J. , Adelman Mark A. , Nalbandian Matthew M. , Bajakian Danielle , Jacobowitz Glenn R. , Lamparello Patrick J. , Riles Thomas S. , Rockman Caron B.
Published: March 2006

This is a retrospective review of all carotid endarterectomies (CEA) (n=91) done from 1993 to 2002 at an inner-city hospital (Group I). This group was compared to a randomly selected group of patients (n= 445) treated at a private hospital (Group II). The same high-volume surgeons performed CEAs at both hospitals. The majority of Group I patients (71.4%) were members of racial minority groups. They were also more likely to be younger (p<0.001), hypertensive (p< 0.03), diabetic (p< 0.001), and current smokers (p< 0.001); have contralateral carotid artery occlusion (p=0.04); and present with stroke (p<0.001) than Group II patients. Despite this, the incidence of postoperative myocardial infarction (2.2% vs 0.2%, p= 0.08), stroke (1.1% vs 1.6%, NS), and death (1.1% vs 0%, NS) was comparable between the 2 groups. Aggressive preoperative workup for occult cardiac disease in Group I revealed an incidence of 25.9% (n=15). Of these, 5 (33.3%) were found to have coronary artery disease severe enough to warrant intervention before CEA. In an inner-city population with increased medical comorbidities, more severe cerebrovascular disease, and relatively low volume of carotid surgery, the results of CEA were comparable to those in patients treated at a high-volume private hospital. The presence of high-volume surgeons, operating at the low-volume municipal hospital, may contribute to the low complication rate. Finally, aggressive preoperative cardiac workup in this underserved population revealed a meaningful incidence of occult coronary artery disease requiring intervention before CEA.
Simvastatin Improved Arterial Compliance in High-Risk Patients
Authors: Saliashvili Gocha , Davis Warren W. , Harris Matthey T. , Le Ngoc-Anh , Brown W. Virgil
Published: March 2006

Reduced arterial compliance is associated with arteriosclerosis. In some arteries, this is due in part to abnormal vascular tone, which can be altered by low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol reduction and statin therapy. We tested the effectiveness of statin therapy in improving arterial compliance in patients with manifest coronary disease (CAD) and/or diabetes. Simvastatin (40 mg/day) was administered to 10 patients with proven CAD for 4 months. As measured by air plethysmography, compliance of the arterial segments in the thigh improved in every patient after 2 months, increasing by 34% by the fourth month. Compliance at the calf was not affected. These results suggest that compliance in the thigh is controlled by smooth muscle tone. Compliance measurements in the thigh and calf may be a useful measurement in evaluating high-risk patients and monitoring cholesterol-lowering therapy.
Rupture of Excluded Popliteal Artery Aneurysm: Implications for Type II Endoleaks
Authors: Mousa Albeir , Faries Peter L. , Bernheim Joshua , Dayal Rajeev , DeRubertis Brian , Hollenbeck Scott , Henderson Peter , Mahanor Elizabeth A. , Kent K. Craig
Published: March 2006

The fate of popliteal artery aneurysms after ligation and bypass is believed to be relatively innocuous. The patient presented in this report, however, experienced spontaneous rupture of a popliteal aneurysm 11 years after ligation and bypass. Magnetic resonance angiography was used to establish the diagnosis of rupture, which was subsequently confirmed at surgery. Intraoperative arteriography demonstrated persistent collateral arterial perfusion of the excluded popliteal aneurysm sac. The collateral arterial flow originated from the superior and inferior lateral genicular arteries. The persistent arterial perfusion resulted in growth of the aneurysm from 4.2 to 7.0 cm over the 11-year period. The ruptured aneurysm was successfully treated by direct arterial exposure and suture ligation of the collateral vessels performed from within the aneurysm sac. The development of popliteal aneurysm expansion and rupture as a result of collateral arterial perfusion suggests that persistent collateral perfusion of abdominal aortic aneurysms after endovascular repair (type II endoleak) may lead to aneurysm rupture. Therefore, close observation and intervention for aneurysm expansion to prevent rupture of the excluded aneurysm are warranted.
Gene Therapy for the Extension of Vein Graft Patency: A Review
Authors: Chandiwal Amito , Balasubramanian Viji , Baldwin Zachary K. , Conte Michael S. , Schwartz Lewis B.
Published: March 2006

The mainstay of treatment for long-segment small-vessel chronic occlusive disease not amenable to endovascular intervention remains surgical bypass grafting using autologous vein. The procedure is largely successful and the immediate operative results almost always favorable. However, the lifespan of a given vein graft is highly variable, and less than 50% will remain primarily patent after 5 years. The slow process of graft malfunction is a result of the vein's chronic maladaptive response to the systemic arterial environment, its primary component being the uncontrolled proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs). It has recently been suggested that this response might be attenuated through pre-implantation genetic modification of the vein, so-called gene therapy for the extension of vein graft patency. Gene therapy seems particularly well suited for the prevention or postponement of vein graft failure since: (1) the stimulation of SMC proliferation appears to largely be an early and transient process, matching the kinetics of current gene transfer technology; (2) most veins are relatively normal and free of disease at the time of bypass allowing for effective gene transfer using a variety of systems; and (3) the target tissue is directly accessible during operation because manipulation and irrigation of the vein is part of the normal workflow of the surgical procedure. This review briefly summarizes the current knowledge of the incidence and basic mechanisms of vein graft failure, the vector systems and molecular targets that have been proposed as possible pre-treatments, the results of experimental genetic modification of vein grafts, and the few available clinical studies of gene therapy for vascular proliferative disorders.
Design and Rationale of the PREVENT III Clinical Trial: Edifoligide for the Prevention of Infrainguinal Vein Graft Failure
Authors: Conte Michael S. , Lorenz Todd J. , Bandyk Dennis F. , Clowes Alexander W. , Moneta Gregory L. , Seely B. Lynn
Published: March 2006

Surgical bypass of peripheral arterial occlusive disease with autologous vein grafts provides an effective means of restoring blood flow to the lower extremity, and has been a standard therapy for patients with disabling claudication or critical limb ischemia (CLI). However, failure rates may run as high as 50% within 5 years.

These graft failures occur as a result of neointimal hyperplasia, a ubiquitous biologic response of blood vessel walls to injury, which is characterized by the migration and proliferation of smooth muscle cells (SMC). The E2F family of transcription factors regulates the expression of genes controlling SMC proliferation. Edifoligide (E2F Decoy) is a novel therapy that inhibits E2F function, thus attenuating neointimal hyperplasia. Its use in conjunction with a patented drug delivery pressurization chamber is under investigation. Using this system, edifoligide is administered to vein grafts in a single, ex vivo treatment following vein harvest and before implantation, resulting in minimal systemic drug exposure and excellent patient compliance.

This Phase 3, randomized, double-blind, multicenter clinical trial is designed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of edifoligide in a population of approximately 1400 patients with CLI undergoing infrainguinal bypass for peripheral arterial disease (PAD). The primary outcome measure will be the time to occurrence of non-technical graft failure resulting in either graft revision or major amputation at 12 months after enrollment. A governing Clinical Events Classification committee (CEC) will adjudicate each graft failure to determine its etiology.

The PREVENT III trial is the largest multicenter trial ever performed in patients receiving autologous vein bypass grafts for CLI. This landmark study will determine if edifoligide is safe and effective at preventing vein graft failure in patients undergoing lower extremity bypass, but it also provides a unique opportunity to observe current treatment practices in vascular surgery.
The Effect of Von Hippel-Lindau Gene Transfer on Human Vascular Smooth Muscle Cell Proliferation and Apoptosis
Authors: Jacob Theresa , Ascher Enrico , Hingorani Anil , Kallakuri Shreedhar
Published: March 2006

Von Hippel-Lindau ( VHL) gene is a tumor suppressor gene that plays a genome “gatekeeper” role and controls several downstream effector genes. We have previously demonstrated that both in vivo and in vitro adenovirus-mediated gene transfer of tumor suppressor genes into the vascular endothelium is effective in decreasing neointimal hyperplasia and abnormal cell proliferation. The degree of apoptosis induced by these genes is critical in mediating the in vivo responses to gene therapy and the maintenance of the crucial balance between cell death and viability. Since VHL gene is known to regulate vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) as well as other angiogenic factors, it may exhibit a greater potential in the attenuation of vascular disorders in comparison to other tumor suppressor genes. This study focused on whether adenovirus-mediated VHL gene transfer into human vascular smooth muscle cells has an effect on cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis. Human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMC) were grown as monolayers and transfected with varying titers of adenovirus containing the VHL cDNA (AdVHL). The negative controls were adenovirus containing green fluorescent protein (AdGFP), vector alone (AdNull), and virus-free infection medium. Adenovirus encoding wild-type p53 (Adp53) was used as positive control. Cell viability and proliferation were determined by using trypan blue exclusion and MTS-based CellTiter 96 AQ Proliferation Assay. Apoptosis was evaluated by TUNEL assay, morphologic changes, and nucleosomal DNA degradation. Following AdVHL transfection HASMCs demonstrated a dose-dependent decrease in viability as compared to negative controls (p<0.05). AdVHL-transfected cells exhibited a decrease in their proliferative ability by 40.21 ±1.66 (SEM)%. In cultures transfected with the positive control, Adp53, the cell viability as well as proliferation was highly reduced (p<0.001). AdGFP and AdNull did not increase HASMC apoptosis above baseline levels. The cells exposed to adenoviruses expressing tumor suppressor genes underwent apoptosis, with Adp53 demonstrating a very high magnitude of cell death (75.27 ±3.52 [SEM]%). AdVHL expression caused 45.36 ±2.55 (SEM)% apoptosis in HASMC. Recombinant adenovirus-mediated VHL expression is efficacious in limiting vascular smooth muscle cell growth in vitro. Overexpression of VHL suppresses HASMC proliferation and regulates apoptosis. Further experiments are indicated to examine whether VHL may be a useful adjunct in limiting myointimal hyperplasia.
Factors Affecting Recurrent Carotid Stenosis
Authors: Liapis Christos D. , Paraskevas Kosmas I.
Published: March 2006

Recurrent carotid stenosis is an ongoing process that may develop at or near the site of an operational or interventional procedure to treat an atheromatous stenosis. Although such a restenosis is most often initially without symptoms, as the disease progresses it may become symptomatic, and thus endanger the patient's life. Such patients are therefore candidates for revisional surgery. Extensive research investigation and numerous studies have incriminated several risk factors as predisposing conditions for recurrent carotid stenosis. The definite role of each predisposing factor, however, is still widely debated. Clarifying the extent of involvement of each factor in the pathogenesis of carotid restenosis is indeed demanding, as it would contribute enormously to the identification of the group of high-risk patients, and, therefore, determine the therapeutic approach in these patients.
Limb Ischemia Associated with Persistent Sciatic Artery Aneurysms
Authors: Wilson Jeffrey S. , Bowser Andrew N. , Miranda Ana , Johnson Brad L. , Cannella Xavier , Back Martin R. , Bandyk Dennis
Published: March 2006

Persistent sciatic artery (PSA) is a rare developmental anomaly, usually associated with iliofemoral hypoplasia and dependence on the sciatic artery as the dominant inflow to the lower extremity. Although rare, this anomaly is associated with a very high rate of aneurysm formation and frequent thromboembolic complications presenting as lower extremity ischemia, and requires familiarity on the part of the vascular surgeon to properly diagnose the disorder and plan therapy. The authors present 2 cases of PSA presenting with lower extremity ischemia and review the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of this rare but important anomaly.
Are We Undertreating Carotid Stenoses Diagnosed by Ultrasound Alone?
Authors: Sprouse L. Richard , Meier George H. , Parent F. Noel , DeMasi Richard J. , LeSar Christopher J. , Nelms Courtney , Carter Kathleen , Marcinczyk Michael J. , Gayle Robert G. , Mendoza Bernardo
Published: March 2006

Clinical management of carotid disease is primarily based on results of national trials (ACAS and NASCET) that used the distal internal carotid artery diameter as a reference. However, commonly accepted ultrasound (US) criteria for carotid stenosis were derived from the correlation of velocity measurements with angiographic bulb diameter reductions (BDR). This study was undertaken to compare the degree of carotid stenosis determined by conventional velocity criteria to the degree of stenosis measured by B-mode (gray scale) diameter at both the carotid bulb and at the distal internal carotid artery, and, second, to evaluate US imaging to derive distal diameter reductions (DDR) noninvasively. During a 3-month period patients referred for carotid US were prospectively analyzed for standard velocity criteria and plaque morphology. Minimum carotid diameter was measured by longitudinal and transverse B-mode measurements and compared to carotid bulb diameter and internal carotid diameter distal to all disease. B-mode diameter reductions were compared to the degree of stenosis determined by velocity criteria and to patient symptoms and the decision for carotid endarterectomy. In total, 131 carotid arteries in 74 patients were evaluated. Based on the University of Washington velocity criteria, lesions were classified as grade I (n= 61, 46%), IIA (n= 58, 44%), IIB (n= 7, 5%), or III (n= 5, 4%). BDR measured by B-mode predicted the grade of disease based on velocity criteria (p<0.001) with an overall accuracy of 95%. With use of the B-mode for DDR (NASCET style), 18 patients exceeded the 60% threshold for surgical intervention. Of these, only 3 patients were symptomatic and were operated on. An additional 3 operated-on patients had an asymptomatic grade III stenosis, our usual threshold for intervention. Twelve additional patients were appropriate for surgical intervention by B-mode but were not treated based on conventional velocity criteria alone. Bulb diameter reduction by B-mode imaging correlates strongly with diameter reduction determined by velocity criteria, and independently predicts the grade of carotid disease. With this in mind, the accuracy of B-mode imaging may be extended to the measurement of carotid stenosis based on DDR. By B-mode criteria, many patients appropriate for intervention were not offered treatment based on conventional velocity criteria. Modern B-mode imaging provides a noninvasive method to obtain “arteriographic equivalent” measurements and should be added as a routine to carotid ultrasound interrogation.
Postcarotid Endarterectomy Pseudoaneurysm Treated with Combined Stent Graft and Coil Embolization
Authors: Mousa Albeir , Bernheim Joshua , Lyon Ross , Dayal Rajeev , Hollenbeck Scott , Henderson Peter , Clair Daniel , Kent K. Craig , Faries Peter L.
Published: March 2006

Pseudoaneurysm formation is a rare complication following carotid endarterectomy (CEA); however, its occurrence is associated with significant risk of morbidity. The patient in this report presented 2 years following CEA with headache and lateral neck mass. The diagnosis of a 3.5 x 3.0 cm carotid artery bifurcation pseudoaneurysm was made by using magnetic resonance angiography (MRA). Endovascular exclusion of the aneurysm was accomplished with coil embolization of the external carotid artery followed by deployment of a 7 x 50 mm wall stent graft into the common carotid artery-internal carotid artery (CCA-ICA). The patient's symptoms improved and at 6-months postexclusion, duplex ultrasound demonstrated a significant reduction in pseudoaneurysm size. This case highlights the feasibility and safety of using endovascular techniques in the treatment of post-CEA pseudoaneurysm.
Exteriorization and Control of a Retained Embolization Coil in the Carotid Artery
Authors: Neschis David G. , Costanza Michael J. , Flinn William R.
Published: March 2006

Advances in endovascular technology have enabled the development of complex techniques for the treatment of vascular conditions. Not surprisingly, the modern vascular surgeon will likely encounter unusual complications and will need to formulate plans for their management. In the current case report, the vascular surgery service was consulted to assist in the management of a retained embolization coil in the carotid artery. Relevant aspects of detachable coils are discussed and the successful management of this potentially hazardous complication is described.
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening: Recommendations and Controversies
Authors: Longo Christopher , Upchurch Gilbert R.
Published: March 2006

Extensive level one evidence supports routine abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) screening in men aged 65 to 75 years, because AAAs are highly prevalent in this population. Physical examination is an insensitive means of detection. Ruptured AAAs are costly with respect to quality adjusted life years (QALY) lost and medical expenses. Large scale, randomized trials have demonstrated that AAA screening reduces all AAA-related mortality in the screened population and is cost-effective in mid-term follow-up. AAA screening by ultrasound has many advantages over other accepted medical screening programs in its simplicity in structure and the availability of an inexpensive, portable, and reliable means of screening. Additionally, AAA screening almost entirely avoids the negative consequences associated with other screening programs, including the adverse psychological effects and medical costs associated with false-positive examination results. There are subgroups of at-risk women who might benefit from AAA screening, and this issue should be further studied.
Endovascular versus “Fast-Track” Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Repair
Authors: Abularrage Christopher J. , Sheridan Michael J. , Mukherjee Dipankar
Published: March 2006

Recent studies have shown that endovascular abdominal aortic aneurysm repair (EVAR) has decreased costs, as well as decreased intensive care unit and total hospital length of stays when compared to abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) repair using a retroperitoneal exposure. The authors hypothesized that the fast-track AAA repair, which combines a retroperitoneal exposure with a patient care pathway that includes a gastric promotility agent and patient-controlled analgesia, would have no differences when compared to EVAR. Records of 58 patients who underwent AAA repair between April 14, 2000, and July 12, 2002, were reviewed retrospectively. Demographic information, length of stay, intraoperative and postoperative complications, mortality, and costs were evaluated. Fifty-eight AAA repairs were performed with the EVAR (n=28) and fast-track (n=30) techniques. The EVAR group was slightly older (72 vs 68 years, p=0.04), had slightly smaller average aneurysm size (5.5 ±0.13 vs 6.1 ±0.17 cm, p=0.008), and had more patients designated American Society of Anesthesia class 4 (p<0.0001). Both groups were predominantly male. Otherwise there were no statistically significant differences in risk factors. Patients who underwent fast-track repair tended to have a longer operation (216 ±7.4 vs 158 ±6.8 minutes, p<0.0001), with a greater volume of blood (1.8 ±0.29 vs 0.32 ±0.24 units, p=0.0005), colloid (565 ±89 vs 32 ±22 cc, p<0.0001), and crystalloid transfusions (4,625 ±252 vs 2,627 ±170 cc, p<0.0001). There were no statistically significant differences in the number of intraoperative or postoperative complications between the 2 groups. EVAR patients resumed a regular diet earlier (0.21 ±0.08 vs 1.8 ±0.11 days, p<0.0001). Intensive care unit stay was shorter for EVAR (0.50 ±0.10 vs 0.87 ±0.10 days, p=0.01), but floor (2.1 ±0.23 vs 2.6 ±0.21 days, p=0.17), and total hospital lengths of stay (2.8 ±0.32 vs 3.4 ±0.18 days, p=0.07) were similar between the 2 groups. Total hospital cost was lower in the fast-track ($10,205 ±$736 vs $20,640 ±$1,206, p<0.0001) leading to greater overall hospital earnings ($6,141 ±$1,280 vs $107 ±$1,940, p=0.01). Fast-track AAA repair is a viable alternative for the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms. Compared to endovascular repair, the fast-track method had increased transfusions of blood and intravenous fluids and increased operating room times, but equivalent lengths of floor and total hospital stay and increased total hospital earnings.
An Experimental Study of a New Pull-through Technique for Aortic Arch Aneurysm in a Porcine Model
Authors: Ohtake Hiroshi , Sanada Junichiro , Kato Hiroki , Kimura Keiichi , Nagamine Hiroshi , Watanabe Go , Matsui Osamu
Published: March 2006

A new pull-through technique for placement of the aortic arch stent-graft was developed. Selfexpandable curved stents (Matsui-Kitamura stents) were used on 4 pigs. With use of the endoscopic system, the sheath insertion was performed at the ascending aorta. By this pullthrough method from the ascending aorta to the femoral artery, the stent was deployed into the aortic arch. All stents were successfully deployed into the correct position, and they fitted into the curvature of the aortic arch wall. By this method, stent-grafting for aortic arch aneurysm is expected to be performed with more accuracy and safety.
Angiogenesis, Vasculogenesis, and Induction of Healing in Chronic Wounds
Authors: Bauer Stephen M. , Bauer Richard J. , Velazquez Omaida C.
Published: March 2006

A key central stage of wound healing requires neovascularization of the wound base granulation tissue. In the adult, neovascularization is now known to occur by both angiogenesis and vasculogenesis. Understanding the biology of these 2 processes offers promising new therapeutic options for patients who suffer from chronic, nonhealing ischemic wounds. The authors review the current literature on the processes of angiogenesis and vasculogenesis and how it relates to wound healing.
Endovascular vs Open AAA Repair: Does Size Matter?
Authors: Lalka Stephen G. , Dalsing Michael C. , Sawchuk Alan P. , Cikrit Dolores F. , Shafique Shoaib
Published: March 2006

Since the natural tendency of the aorta is to increase in diameter and tortuosity with age and since abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) increase in diameter and length over time, encroaching on the renal and hypogastric orifices, early repair of AAAs (when =4.0 cm) may allow greater applicability of the endovascular option because of more favorable aortoiliac morphology. Patients who present at an older age with larger AAAs should be more likely to be anatomically excluded from endovascular AAA repair. Over a 42-month period, 317 consecutive patients referred with aortoiliac aneurysms (infrarenal AAA =4.0 cm) were evaluated by one of the authors (SGL) for endovascular vs open repair based on computed tomography (CT) and angiographic imaging. The 10 anatomic exclusion criteria were those applicable to the Zenith ® endograft (Cook, Inc), which currently is the most anatomically inclusive of the aortic endografts in commercial use in the United States. Based on their aortoiliac morphology, 212 patients were excluded from endovascular repair and 105 were included as acceptable anatomic candidates. Age, AAA size, and the reason(s) for exclusion were recorded for each patient. By use of Student's t test and logistic and linear regression analyses, the groups were compared by age, AAA size, and age + size. There was no significant difference in patient age or AAA size distribution between the group of patients excluded from endovascular repair based on aortoiliac morphology compared to those who met the inclusion criteria. Patients with small AAAs (4.0–5.4 cm) had similar age distribution as those with large (=5.5 cm) AAAs. The majority of patients (87%) were excluded based on proximal aortic neck morphology. The presence of aortoiliac morphology that precludes endovascular repair is independent of patient age or AAA size at presentation. A patient presenting with a small (4.0–5.4 cm) AAA is not more likely to be a candidate for endovascular repair than a patient with a large AAA.
Morbidity and Mortality Associated with Internal Jugular Vein Thromboses
Authors: Ascher Enrico , Salles-Cunha Sergio , Hingorani Anil
Published: March 2006

The authors have noted a significant incidence of pulmonary embolism and mortality associated with upper extremity deep venous thrombosis (UEDVT). Since there is an association between the site of lower extremity DVT (LEDVT) and pulmonary embolism, they hypothesized that there might also be a correlation between the site of UEDVT and the incidence of pulmonary embolism (PE) and associated mortality. To further elucidate this hypothesis, they analyzed the mortality rate and incidence of PE diagnosed with subclavian/axillary or internal jugular vein thrombosis during a 5-year period at their institution. Two hundred and ten patients were diagnosed with acute internal jugular and/or subclavian/axillary DVT during a 5-year period by duplex scanning. The indications for the duplex examination were upper extremity swelling in 187 (89%) or as part of the work-up for pulmonary embolism in 23 (11%). There were 126 women (60%) and 84, men (40%). The mean age was 67 ±18 years (range 1–101 years). The patients were divided into 3 groups based on the location of the thrombus: Group I — UEDVT involving the subclavian and/or axillary veins (n = 128); Group II — internal jugular vein thrombosis alone (n = 21); and Group III — concomitant subclavian/axillary and internal jugular vein DVT (n = 61). Risk factors were presence of central venous catheter or pacemaker in 127 patients (60%), malignancy in 78 patients (37%), concomitant lower extremity deep venous thrombosis (LEDVT) in 40 patients (19%), and history of LEDVT in 6 patients (3%). Eighty (38%) patients had more than 1 risk factor. The mean follow-up period was 13 ±1 months (range 0–49 months). Mortality rates at 1, 3, and 12 months were 13%, 31%, and 40% for Group I; 14%, 33%, and 42% for Group II; and 23%, 44%, and 59% for Group III. The mortality rate in Group I was statistically significantly higher for patients =75 years old, patients not treated with anticoagulation, and patients who underwent placement of a central venous line. The same risk factors did not achieve statistical significance in the 2 other groups. The number of patients diagnosed with pulmonary embolism by ventilation/perfusion scans in Groups I, II, and III that could be attributed to the UEDVT solely was 8 (4%), 1 (0.5%), and 3 (2.4%), respectively. Contrary to the initial hypothesis of a relationship between the site of thrombosis and the incidence of pulmonary embolism and mortality, these data showed no statistical differences in mortality rate or incidence of pulmonary embolism among the 3 groups studied. These data also suggest that internal jugular vein thrombosis is a disease process associated with mortality and morbidity rates comparable to those of subclavian/ axillary vein thrombosis.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency Due to Great Saphenous Vein Incompetence Treated with Radiofrequency Ablation: An Effective and Safe Procedure in the Elderly
Authors: Tzilinis Argyrios , Salles-Cunha Sergio X. , Dosick Steven M. , Gale Steven S. , Seiwert Andrew J. , Comerota Anthony J.
Published: March 2006

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) with the resultant clinical sequelae significantly reduces quality of life. Most elderly patients with CVI are treated nonoperatively owing to concerns of increased operative risk and therefore suffer more advanced disease. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) has emerged as a minimally invasive procedure to treat patients with superficial venous insufficiency (SVI) due to great saphenous vein (GSV) incompetence. The purpose of this study was to review our experience using RFA of the GSV to treat CVI due to superficial disease in elderly patients compared to younger patients in terms of procedure-related morbidity and severity of disease at time of treatment. RFA treatment of the GSV was performed in 490 extremities of 421 patients with SVI between March 2001 and December 2002. Indications, medical history, and outcome (operative complications and hospital stay) were compared between 2 groups: Group I: 41 extremities of 35 patients, 70 years if age or older (mean 75 ±4); and Group II: 449 limbs of 386 patients younger than 70 years (mean 47 ±11). The incidence of skin pigmentation and healed/nonhealed ulcers (CEAP 4–6) was significantly higher in the elderly than in the younger group (41% vs 16%, p <0.05). Hypertension, diabetes, and previous myocardial infarction were 2.8, 5.4, and 6.7 times more prevalent in the elderly (p <0.05), respectively. There were no major postoperative complications in either group; 97% of all patients were discharged on the day of operation and there was no difference between the 2 groups in overnight hospital stay. There is a treatment bias against operative management in elderly patients with SVI, as evidenced by their more advanced disease at the time of definitive treatment than their younger cohort. However, operative morbidity is no different compared to the younger subset. RFA is a safe and effective procedure for older patients; therefore, the threshold for operative management of older patients should be lowered.
Arc of Buhler: Incidence and Diameter in Asymptomatic Individuals
Authors: Saad Wael E. A. , Davies Mark G. , Sahler Lawrence , Lee David , Patel Nikhil , Kitanosono Takashi , Sasson Talia , Waldman David
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was to determine the incidence and diameter of the Arc of Buhler by power injection digital subtraction angiography in asymptomatic patients. A retrospective evaluation of 120 combined celiac (CAx) and superior mesenteric artery (SMA) angiograms was carried out on potential live related liver transplant donors (asymptomatic patients) performed from January 1999 to May 2002. The diameter of the Arc of Buhler was calculated with reference to the 5 French catheters used to perform the diagnostic angiograms. It was considered hemodynamically significant if it preferential filled the branches of the other visceral vessel. An Arc of Buhler was identified in 4 patients (3.3%). All 4 patients had a patent gastroduodenal artery (GDA) and none of the 4 had a hemodynamically significant stenosis of either the SMA or the CAx. All Arcs of Buhler found measured less than 2.5 mm in diameter and half of them (2 of the 4) filled the CAx when power injecting the SMA and/or vice versa. There is a low incidence of Arc of Buhler in asymptomatic patients; however, 50% of those encountered were hemodynamically significant. When evaluating the Arc of Buhler by angiography in the setting of pathology, it is important to have a reference diameter and hemodynamic reference in the normal setting, particularly when the prospect of GDA ligation or embolization is entertained in the presence of CAx or SMA occlusion.
Young Women Presenting with Chronic Mesenteric Ischemia
Authors: Ling Felix J. , Eskandari Mark K.
Published: March 2006

Chronic mesenteric ischemia is primarily a disease of the elderly, who have widespread atherosclerosis of the celiac, superior mesenteric, and inferior mesenteric arteries. Risk factors include smoking, vasculitis, fibromuscular dysplasia, and arterial dissection. Presented here are 2 cases of women under age 50 years burdened with this condition, owing primarily to advanced arteriosclerosis. These cases illustrate a need for increased awareness of mesenteric ischemia as a cause for postprandial abdominal pain in young patients with other stigmata of advanced arterial occlusive disease.
Endovascular Repair of Small Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms: A Paradigm Shift?
Authors: Welborn M. Burress , Yau Franklin S. , Modrall J. Gregory , Lopez Jorge A. , Floyd Stephen , Valentine R. James , Clagett G. Patrick
Published: March 2006

Recent reports have documented poor long-term results following endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) of large abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA). EVAR of small AAAs may result in improved long-term results compared to large AAAs. It is not known whether the frequency of anatomic suitability for EVAR is increased for small compared to large AAAs. This study compared the anatomic suitability of large and small AAAs for EVAR in an unselected patient population. Radiology reports for all computed tomography (CT) scans in a single hospital over a recent 3-year period were reviewed. AAAs diagnosed by contrasted CT scans with cuts >7 mm were excluded. Suitability for EVAR was determined by neck diameter, length, and angulation. In addition, iliac diameters and common iliac distal landing zone lengths were determined. Computerized 3-dimensional (3D) reconstruction was used to measure neck angulation and total aortic tortuosity. One hundred ninety-one patients were found to have AAAs with adequate CT scans for evaluation. Suitability for EVAR was highest in patients with AAA diameters of 3–4 cm and declined with increasing size of the AAA. Dividing AAAs into sizes greater than or less than 5.5 cm revealed that small AAAs had significantly longer necks, less neck angulation, longer common iliac landing zones, and less total aortic tortuosity. Multivariable analysis revealed that maximal aortic diameter was the only independent predictor of suitability for EVAR (p = 0.005, odds ratio 1.67, CI 95% = 1.17 to 2.38). The odds ratio predicts that with each 1 cm increase in size, the likelihood of suitability decreased by 5.3-fold. Small AAAs have less complex anatomy with longer aortic necks, less neck angulation, and less tortuosity. The poor outcomes following the treatment of large AAAs is thought to be due to complex anatomy. EVAR of less anatomically challenging small AAAs may improve longterm outcomes.
Graft Infectivity of Rifampin and Silver-Bonded Polyester Grafts to MRSA Contamination
Authors: Schmacht Dale , Armstrong Paul , Johnson Brad , Pierre Ketsia , Back Martin , Honeyman Alan , Cuthbertson David , Bandyk Dennis
Published: March 2006

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the ability of vascular polyester grafts with antibacterial properties to resist colonization following surface contamination by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(MRSA) in an experimental canine model or aortic graft infection. Twenty-four pathogen-free dogs underwent replacement of the infrarenal aorta with either a rifampin-soaked (30 mg/mL) or silver-impregnated (Ag-acetate) woven polyester graft. Following implantation, the external graft surface was inoculated with 2 mL of 107 colonyforming units/mL (CFU) of MRSA. Preoperative antibiotic prophylaxis consisted of a single intravenous dose of 500 mg of sodium cefazolin. Four grafts of each type were explanted at 3, 7, and 14 days after implantation. Quantitative cultures (CFU/specimen) of perigraft fluid (1 mL), graft material (1 cm segment), and adjacent aorta (1 cm segment) were performed. Differences between grafts are expressed as% mean log reduction in recoverable CFU compared to the inoculation solution concentration of 107 CFUs. At 3 days, explanted rifampinsoaked grafts exhibited no MRSA growth (4 of 4 grafts) and a =97% mean log reduction of MRSA CFUs from the adjacent aorta and perigraft fluid (PGF). At 3 days, all silver-bonded grafts exhibited signs of infection and a mean log CFU reduction of MRSA ranging from 68% (absolute range 101–103 recoverable CFU) for the graft, 79% (absolute range 101–103 recoverable CFU) for the aorta, and 86% (absolute range 101–104 recoverable CFU) for PGF. The 7-day rifampin group had an average log reduction in MRSA CFU of 72% (graft), 58% (PGF), 75% (aorta). Quantitative cultures of 14-day rifampin grafted demonstrated continued bacterial growth suppression with mean MRSA CFU log reductions of 82%, graft; 72%, PGF; 89%, aorta. Silver-bonded grafts demonstrated <50% mean CFU reduction in MRSA growth at 7 days (absolute range 105–107 recoverable CFU) and 14 days (absolute range 103–107 recoverable CFU). No animal died from sepsis or anastomotic hemorrhage. Neither rifampin nor silverbonded grafts demonstrated prolonged resistance to surface MRSA contamination. Rifampinsoaked polyester grafts exhibited a marked but transient resistance MRSA colonization likely the result of high antibiotic concentration in the perigraft tissue. While both types of grafts failed to eradicate the MRSA infection future research with silver-bonded grafts that have an additional antibiotic attached may have a place in the treatment of MRSA infection.
Supracondylar Process of the Humerus Causing Brachial Artery Compression and Digital Embolization in a Fast-Pitch Softball Player
Authors: Thompson J. Keith , Edwards John D.
Published: March 2006

The supracondylar process of the humerus is a rare abnormality found in 0.4–2.7% of the population. It has been documented to cause neurovascular compression in the upper extremity owing to its local impingement on the median nerve and brachial artery at its medial location on the humerus just proximal to the elbow. The authors report the first known case of digital ischemia from embolization of thrombus caused by local compression of the brachial artery attributed to a supracondylar process.
An Overview of Matrix Metalloproteinases in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms
Authors: Keeling W. Brent , Armstrong Paul A. , Stone Patrick A. , Bandyk Dennis F. , Shames Murray L.
Published: March 2006

Recent basic and clinical research has established a link between the pathogenesis of abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) and matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). The discovery of the influence of MMPs on in vitro and in vivo aneurysm development has yielded promising information that may eventually decode the pathogenetic factors affecting the initiation and growth rate of AAAs. In this review, an analysis of MMPs involved in AAA disease is presented, including the data from recent research studies and planned clinical drug trails designed to retard the AAA growth by inhibiting MMP activity.
Comparison of CT and Catheter Arteriography for Evaluation of Peripheral Arterial Disease
Authors: Bui Trung D. , Gelfand Dmitri , Whipple Steven , Wilson Samuel E. , Fujitani Roy M. , Conroy Robert , Pham Hanh , Gordon Ian L.
Published: March 2006

Computed tomographic arteriography (CTA) has emerged as a promising technique for less invasive imaging of the lower extremity arteries. The aim of this study was to determine the concordance between CTA and catheter arteriography (CA) in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Twenty-five patients underwent both CTA and CA, and each set of images was interpreted independently by 3 readers. The infrarenal arteries were divided into 16 segments, and each segment was scored as: 1 = stenosis <50%; 2 = 50–99% stenosis; 3 = occlusion. Modal scores from 3 readers were used to compare results for each segment, with CA assumed to represent true arterial anatomy. Agreement between CTA and CA readings was defined as: concordance (modal scores were identical); moderate discrepancy (MD) (modal scores differed by 1); or severe discrepancy (SD) (modal scores differed by 2). In total, 718 segments were assessed by both CTA and CA. For all segments, the sensitivity and specificity of CTA for <50% stenosis was 86% and 90%; for 50–99% stenosis, sensitivity and specificity were 79% and 89%; and for occlusion, 85% and 98%. Above-knee (AK) CTA scores had slightly better concordance of 86.1% than below-knee (BK) readings (82.3%) (p = 0.104). Severe discrepancies between AK CTA and CA scores were observed in 1.8% of segments compared to 5.4% of BK segments (p = 0.038). Poor CTA image quality was the cause in 20% of AK segments and 28% of BK segments. Poor CA image quality was the cause in 8% of AK and 7% of BK discrepancies. Registration disagreement (stenosis observed in a level in 1 study attributed to a different level in the other) accounted for 18% of AK and 17% of BK discrepancies. In 54% of AK and 48% of BK discrepancies, neither image quality nor registration errors were identified, indicating that inherent differences in the depiction of stenosis by CA and CTA were responsible. When discrepancies caused by registration error were excluded, SD observed in BK segments (4.0%) remained significantly higher than in AK segments (1.25%) (p = 0.029), and poor CTA quality image was the most common cause (76%) of severe BK discrepancies. In AK discrepancies without an identifiable technical cause, CTA uniformly showed more stenosis, suggesting greater CTA diagnostic precision in larger vessels. In general, agreement between CTA and CA was moderately good. Compared to CA, CTA may be better at depicting stenosis in large, proximal vessels owing to the superior accuracy of cross-sectional images in the measurement of stenosis. There appeared to be poorer CT resolution and higher frequency of severe discrepancies between CTA and CA in BK arteries.
Percutaneous Isolated Limb Perfusion with Thrombolytics for Severe Limb Ischemia
Authors: Ali Ahsan T. , Kalapatapu Venkat R. , Bledsoe Shelly , Moursi Mohammed M. , Eidt John F.
Published: March 2006

Patients with severe tibioperoneal disease are poor candidates for a distal bypass. Absence of a distal target, lack of conduit, or multiple medical problems can make these patients a prohibitive risk for revascularization. Acute on chronic ischemia in this group poses a greater challenge. Thrombolytic therapy for acute ischemia can be prolonged and carries a significant risk of bleeding if continued beyond 24 hours. However, if the ischemic limbs can be isolated from the systemic circulation, a higher dose of the lytic agent can be given with lower risk. These are the initial results of a series of 10 patients who underwent percutaneous isolated limb perfusion with a high dose of thrombolytics for severe ischemia. Ten patients (lower extremity 8 and upper extremity 2) presented with severe limb-threatening ischemia. Mean ankle/brachial index (ABI) was 0.15 for the lower extremity, and there were no recordable digital pressures in patients with upper extremity ischemia. No distal target was visible on the initial arteriogram. These patients were then taken to the operating room, and under anesthesia, catheters were placed in an antegrade fashion via femoral approach in the popliteal artery and vein percutaneously. For upper extremity, the catheters were placed in the brachial artery and vein. A proximal tourniquet was then applied. This isolated the limb from the systemic circulation. Heparinized saline was infused through the arterial catheter while the venous catheter was left open. A closed loop or an isolated limb perfusion was confirmed when effluent became clear coming out of the venous port. A high dose of thrombolytic agent (urokinase 500,000 to 1,000,000 U) was infused into the isolated limb via the arterial catheter and drained out of the venous catheter. After 45 minutes, arterial flow was reestablished. In 4 patients, Reopro ® was used in addition to thrombolytics. Postprocedure angiograms showed minimal changes, but patients exhibited marked clinical improvement. The ABI changed from 0.15 to 0.5 in the lower extremity and near-normal digital pressures in upper extremity ischemia. Limb salvage and symptomatic relief at 6 months was 90%. All patients except one were kept on anticoagulation postoperatively. No bleeding complications were observed from the procedure. Percutaneous isolated limb perfusion brought symptomatic relief to patients presenting with acute on chronic limb ischemia. This can be an alternate option for patients facing amputation with no revascularization options.
Protected Carotid Artery Stenting and Angioplasty via Transfemoral versus Transcervical Approaches
Authors: Lin Judith C. , Kolvenbach Ralf R. , Pinter Laszlo
Published: March 2006

This prospective cohort study was taken to determine whether transcervical carotid artery stenting (CAS) with internal carotid artery (ICA) flow reversal is associated with a lower incidence of embolization and femoral access complication when compared with protected, transfemoral CAS in selected, high-risk patients. From 2002 to October 2004, the authors performed 55 carotid stentings and angioplasties. Among the 24 cases via transfemoral approach, 1 developed transient ischemic attack (TIA), 1 stroke, 1 asystolic cardiac arrest, 2 groin hematoma, 2 technical failure, and 1 restenosis. Among the 31 cases via transcervical approach, 2 patients developed TIAs, 4 bradycardia, 2 cervical hematoma, and 3 technical failures leading to open conversion and carotid endarterectomy. Transcervical CAS with ICA flow reversal eliminates the risk of aortic arch emboli, provides cerebral protection during predeployment manipulation across the carotid lesion, negates preprocedure mapping of the aortic arch configuration, and surpasses difficult aortic arch or transfemoral access.
Iliofemoral Venous Pressure Correlates with Intraabdominal Pressure in Morbidly Obese Patients
Authors: Arfvidsson Berndt , Eklof Bo , Balfour John
Published: March 2006

Clinically, it has been observed that severely and morbidly obese individuals more often have venous leg symptoms related to venous stasis than normal-weight persons have. Obesity is associated with an increased intraabdominal pressure (IAP). The increased IAP in severely and morbidly obese patients would reasonably cause an elevated iliofemoral venous pressure (IFVP), which transmits via incompetent femoral veins, causing venous stasis in the lower limbs. The aim of this study was to determine whether the elevated IAP assessed by the urinary bladder pressure (UBP) corresponded with an increased directly measured IFVP. Fifteen women with morbid obesity were investigated with simultaneous UBP and direct iliofemoral vein pressures. Four normal-weight controls were investigated in the same manner. The obese patients had significantly higher UBP than the controls had, 19.1 and 8.5 cm H2O, respectively. They also had elevated IFVP compared with the controls, 19.7 and 7.5 cm H2O, respectively, and these IFVPs correlated well with the UBPs. The assumption that increased IAP in morbidly obese patients causes increased IFVP was consequently determined. To our knowledge, this has not previously been demonstrated in human individuals. How these elevated pressures contribute to the development of lower limb venous insufficiency is subject to further studies.