bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitral Valve Reconstruction: Long-Term Results of 120 Cases
Authors: Soyer R. , Bouchart F. , Bessou J. P. , Tabley A. , Mouton-Schleifer D. , Redonnet M. , Arrignon J. , Letac B.
Published: September 2024

Between January 1977 and December 1992, 120 patients underwent mitral valve reconstruction for pure mitral valve regurgitation ( n = 88). or associated with mitral stenosis ( n = 32). The mean age was 57.6 years. Some 89 patients were in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III and IV; 61% were in atrial fibrillation. Four mechanisms of mitral regurgitation were assessed: dilatation of the annulus (group I: n = 10); increased amplitude of valve motion (group II: n = 62); restriction of valve motion (group III: n = 23), and mixed lesions (group IV: n = 25). Mitral valve repair was carried out using techniques described by Carpentier. Ring annuloplasty was performed in all patients. There were two operative deaths, and six late deaths. Mean patient follow-up was 41 (range 2–142) months. The actuarial survival rate, excluding hospital deaths, was 91.7% at 5 years and 89.1% at 8 years. Actuarial freedom from reoperation at 8 years was 95(2)% Freedom from all thromboembolic complications was 89.1% at 8 years. Most survivors had improved to NYHA class I or II and postoperative Doppler echocardiography revealed satisfactory mitral valve competence in 83 patients. Mitral valve reconstruction for mitral regurgitation using Carpentier techniques provides excellent long-term functional results and should be considered as the procedure of choice in patients referred for mitral regurgitation.
Cardiac Risk Assessment before Vascular Surgery: A Prospective Study Comparing Clinical Evaluation, Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography, and Dobutamine Tc-99m Sestamibi Tomoscintigraphy
Authors: Van Damme H. , Piérard L. , Gillain D. , Benoit Th. , Rigo P. , Limet R.
Published: September 2024

Preoperative evaluation for cardiac risk assessment before peripheral vascular surgery remains controversial. Between January and June 1994, a prospective open study was carried out in 156 patients scheduled for elective vascular procedures (63 carotid endarterectomies, 34 abdominal aortic aneurysms, 29 aortoiliac and 30 infrainguinal reconstructions) to compare the ability of clinical data, dobutamine stress echocardiography, and dobutamine Tc-99m sestamibi tomoscintigraphy to predict postoperative cardiac events. Pharmacological stress testing consisted of incremental dobutamine infusion (±1 mg atropine to achieve 85% of age-predicted maximal heart rate, with continuous echocardiographic monitoring, and injection of Tc-99m sestamibi after dobutamine infusion). Dobutamine echocardiography was abnormal in 36 patients (worsening resting wall motion abnormality in 11; new induced wall motion abnormality in 25). Dobutamine Tc-99m sestamibi tomoscintigraphy revealed a reversible perfusion defect in 34 patients, indicating the presence of myocardial ischaemia. As a result, eight patients underwent myocardial revascularization ( n = 5) or the proposed operation was cancelled ( n = 3). In the remaining 142 vascular procedures, there were eight (5.6%) adverse cardiac events: three myocardial infarctions (two fatal), three prolonged myocardial ischaemia, one acute congestive heart failure and one sustained ventricular arrhythmia in the post operative period. Univariate analysis selected unstable angina (relative risk (RR) 11.6), previous congestive heart failure (RR 6.4), Detsky's score of ≥15 (RR 3.0), positive dobutamine stress echocardiography (RR 3.7), and positive dobutamine tomoscintigraphy (RR 7.4) as significant predictors of postoperative cardiac events. In patients without clinical markers of coronary artery disease ( n = 66), non-invasive cardiac testing did not predict cardiac complications ( n = 2; one prolonged myocardial ischaemia; one infarction). In the subset of 76 patients with definite clinical or electrocardiographic evidence of ischaemic heart disease, dobutamine stress testing provided additional information, and optimized risk stratification: five of six patients who suffered a cardiac complication had a pathologic dobutamine stress test. Furthermore, a negative dobutamine stress test was characterized by a high negative predictive value (0.96 for echocardiography; 0.97 for tomoscintigraphy). The study further demonstrated that the cardiac response (ischaemic versus non-ischaemic) to dobutamine stress was concordantly classified by echocardiographic and tomoscintigraphic techniques in 96% of cases. It is concluded that complementary non-invasive cardiac stress testing by dobutamine is indicated only in patients with clinically apparent coronary artery disease.
Endoluminal Pulse Oximetry Combined with Tonometry to Monitor the Perfusion of the Sigmoid during and after Resection of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Vahl A. C. , Ozkaynak-Yilmaz E. N. , Nauta S. H. M. , Scheffer G. J. , Felt-Bersma R. J. M. , Brom H. L. F. , Rauwerda J. A.
Published: September 2024

Early detection of colonic ischaemia after aortic grafting is essential if mortality is to be decreased when this complication develops. The aim of this study was to determine changes in the sigmoid colon during and after abdominal aortic grafting using endoluminal pulse oximetry (SmO2). Oxygen saturation was measured on the mucosa (SmO2) and serosa (SsO2) of 20 sequential patients undergoing elective surgery for abdominal aortic aneurysm; intramural pH1 was also measured. Initially, all patients had a normal SmO2 in the sigmoid; however, before cross-clamping eight patients had a reduction in the SmO2. The pulse curve disappeared immediately after cross-clamping in 15 patients, with only five still showing a pulse curve in the sigmoid colon. Before declamping, 13 patients regained their pulse curve. The intraluminal pHi showed a large interindividual variation (2 S.D. ≈ 0.4). Patients were classified into three groups according to SmO2: group A, no pulse; group B, diminished saturation (<90%); and group C, normal saturation (≥90%). There was significant correlation with the pHi after cross-clamping in all groups. One patient who developed ischaemia of the sigmoid colon demonstrated a prolonged reduction in the SmO2, a decreased perioperative pHi, and an increased oxygen saturation in the inferior mesenteric vein during cross-clamping.
Continuous Transoesophageal Echocardiography Monitoring during Weaning from Cardiopulmonary Bypass in Children
Authors: Ninomiya J. , Yamauchi H. , Hosaka H. , Ishii Y. , Terada K. , Sugimoto T. , Yamauchi S. , Yajima T. , Bessho R. , Fujii M. , Hinokiyama K. , Tanaka S.
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of transoesophageal echocardiography monitoring during weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass after intracardiac repair in children. The left ventricular ejection fraction, left ventricular end-diastolic volume and left ventricle wall motion were monitored continuously by transoesophageal echocardiography in controls weaned easily from cardiopulmonary bypass (group A, n = 25), and those weaned with difficulty from cardiopulmonary bypass after mechanically assisted circulation (group B, n = 16). In group A, left ventricular ejection fraction and left ventricle wall motion were within normal range, and did not change significantly during weaning after cardiopulmonary bypass when compared with pre-bypass data. In contrast, left ventricular ejection fraction, left ventricular end-diastolic volume and left ventricle wall motion in group B during the first trial of weaning from bypass were significantly worsened. Hence, assisted circulation was performed until the data obtained via transoesophageal echocardiography improved with regard to maintenance of fluid balance, catecholamine dosage and assisted pump flow. All cases in group B were weaned safely from cardiopulmonary bypass despite their critical condition. In conclusion, continuous transoesophageal echocardiography monitoring may be a useful tool in children with severe heart failure for safe weaning from cardiopulmonary bypass after intracardiac repair.
Comparison of Results of Carotid Artery Surgery after Either Direct Closure or Use of a Vein Patch
Authors: Désiron Q. , Detry O. , Van Damme H. , Creemers E. , Limet R.
Published: September 2024

In order to assess the benefit of vein patching versus direct closure after carotid endarterectomy, a series of 2271 carotid operations were analysed retrospectively. Apart from 114 procedures consisting of saphenous vein bypass ( n = 29) and eversion endarterectomy ( n = 85), 2157 open endarterectomies were performed. They were closed either directly ( n = 837) or using a vein patch ( n = 1320). The combined mortality-major neurological morbidity rate was 1.7%, i.e. 1% mortality (0.2% neurological) and 0.7% permanent neurological morbidity (0.5% ipsilateral to the operated artery). Early symptomatic internal carotid thrombosis was documented in six cases (four following direct closure and two after vein patching). A total of 827 carotid arteries were followed up by duplex scanning on an annual basis (244 direct closure and 583 vein patching). The mean follow-up was 44 months; 69 months for direct closure and 35 months for vein patching. In direct closure, there were 21 stenoses (9%) and 10 occult thromboses (4%); in vein patching carotids, there were 17 stenoses (3%), nine thromboses (9.8%) and six pseudoaneurysms (1%). Annual incidence of poor results was 2.4% in direct closure, and 0.87% in vein patching. The only other factor responsible for a significant difference was gender (3.4% in women versus 2.1% in men). In this retrospective study, vein patching appears to be beneficial for the prevention of acute postoperative thrombosis and late stenosis or thrombosis.
Repair of a Post-Traumatic Common Iliac Arteriovenous Fistula
Authors: Oakes D. D. , Sherck J. P.
Published: September 2024

The management of a patient with a post-traumatic common iliac arteriovenous fistula which was repaired surgically is reported. The current use of less-invasive endoluminal techniques is reviewed
Intrinsic Dacron Graft Failure 19 Years Post-Implantation
Authors: Nunn D. B. , Pourdeyhimi B.
Published: September 2024

Intrinsic failure of a knitted Dacron aortic bifurcation graft 19 years after implantation is reported. Failure was due to inability of the dilated and deteriorated left graft limb to hold anastomotic sutures. Numerous transverse cracks and breaks were detected in the Dacron filaments, in addition to small holes throughout the fabric structure, and a severe reduction in the yarn's tensile strength. Criteria are defined for establishing a correct diagnosis, and causative factors, incidence, and clinical management are discussed.
Stent Grafts for Iliofemoral Occlusive Disease
Authors: Nevelsteen A. , Lacroix H. , Stockx L , Wilms G.
Published: September 2024

This report summarizes the technical feasibility and early results of endovascular iliofemoral stented grafts in the treatment of iliofemoral occlusive disease. Twenty-four patients (mean age 71 years) underwent 29 lower-extremity inflow procedures for claudication ( n = 7) or limb threatening ischaemia ( n = 17). The technical success rate for endovascular grafts was 93% ( n = 27). Some 85% of the grafts originated from the aortoiliac junction or the common iliac arteries. Outflow procedures were performed in all cases and consisted of profundaplasty ( n = 17) and/or femorodistal grafting ( n = 13). The operative mortality rate was 9% and one occlusion was noted in the early postoperative period. The mean (s.d.) primary and secondary cumulative patency rates after 1 year were 85(10)% and 95(5)% respectively. The corresponding limb salvage rate was 95(4)%. The authors conclude that endovascular iliofemoral stented grafts through a single groin incision are technically feasible and that early patency rates are acceptable. More experience is needed however before widespread application of these new techniques can be justified.
The Thrombosed Arteriovenous Graft: An Endovascular Model for Vascular Surgeons
Authors: Lumsden A. B. , Hughes J. D. , MacDonald M. J. , Ofenloch J. C.
Published: September 2024

Arteriovenous dialysis grafts are the most commonly implanted prosthetic grafts. Thrombectomy with selective graft revision is traditional therapy for occlusions, but patency is minimally prolonged. Stenoses are determined by tactile feedback from an embolectomy catheter and lack of prograde and retrograde bleeding. An objective method for studying the graft and inflow and outflow tracts that permits appropriate endoluminal or surgical correction is described. This approach is appealing because: (i) the current approach is inadequate; (ii) it offers an objective, quantitative method to determine frequency and severity of critical stenoses within the failed access graft; (iii) remote and perigraft stenoses can be treated at the same setting; and (iv) it promotes the development of endovascular skills by surgeons in a high-volume, low-risk setting.
Utility of Carotid Duplex in Young Adults with Lower Extremity Atherosclerosis: How Aggressive Should We Be in Screening Young Patients?
Authors: Valentine R. J. , Hagino R. T. , Boyd P. I. , Kakish H. B. , Clagett G. P.
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence and degree of carotid disease in patients with premature lower-extremity atherosclerosis. Seventy-six young men (mean age at onset of symptoms 42 ± 0.5 years with premature lower extremity atherosclerosis who underwent complete carotid duplex scans were studied. The mean lowest ankle: brachial index was 0.49 ± 0.02. Forty-seven patients (62%) required interventions to treat advanced leg symptoms, and 18 (24%) experienced disease progression during the study period. Carotid duplex scans showed internal carotid occlusions in eight (11%); advanced or critical plaque disease (60–99% diameter loss) in 14 (18%); moderate plaque disease (40–59% diameter loss) in 16 (21%); mild plaque disease (intimal thickening or 1–39% diameter loss) in 18 (24%); and normal carotid arteries in 20 (26%). Comparing the 20 subjects with normal carotid arteries to the 56 with any evidence of disease, there were no differences in age of onset, risk factors, coronary artery disease, mean ankle: brachial index, number of interventions, disease progression, amputation, or death. Fifteen (27%) of the patients with carotid atherosclerosis ultimately developed transient ischemic attack or stroke; 13 of these had advanced carotid stenoses or carotid occlusions. In conclusion, carotid plaque disease is prevalent among patients with premature atherosclerosis of the lower extremity. The presence of carotid atherosclerosis is not related to the degree of lower extremity atherosclerosis, nor to the rate of disease progression. Carotid duplex scans are indicated to screen these young patients for compelling lesions that might warrant prophylactic carotid endarterectomy.
A Critical Approach for Longitudinal Clinical Trial of Stretch PTFE Aortic Grafts
Authors: Shah D. M. , Darling R. C. , Kreienberg P. B. , Wirth G. , Shah R. , Lloyd W. E. , Chang B. B. , Paty P. S. K. , Leather R. P.
Published: September 2024

Adaptation of new clinical products should be based upon thorough scientific evaluation of properties and performance in vitro and in vivo. Developmental animal research experimentation is classically carried out by the manufacturer with eventual government approval. However, objective data needs to be recorded during clinical trials including handling characteristics, bleeding, tensile strength, kinking, seamline break, dilatation, anastomotic deterioration, patency, and incorporation. Since April 1991, 1010 stretch polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) aortic grafts have been implanted at our institution and data were recorded prospectively. Six hundred and seven were for elective abdominal aortic aneurysms, 46 for symptomatic abdominal aortic aneurysms, 58 for ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms. 17 for elective thoracoabdominal aneurysms, 3 for ruptured thoracoabdominal aneurysms and the remainder were for various aortoiliac pathology. Average age of the patients was 69 (range: 10–95), 66% were males, 25% were diabetics. Overall operative mortality was 5.8% (2.9% in elective cases and 26.6% in emergent cases). There were 23 occlusions; 21 were revised and 2 were replaced with axillofemoral bypasses. Estimated blood loss was 784 cc in elective cases and 1918 cc in emergent cases. Grafts were followed by duplex ultrasound or CT scan every 3 months during the first year and every 6 months thereafter. There were no graft dilatations or false aneurysms in this series. There was one graft infection and no perigraft seromas or anastomotic deteriorations during this follow up. Follow up was complete in 94% of these patients. In conclusion, stretch PTFE graft has acceptable handling characteristics, no excessive bleeding at the suture line and had no anastomotic or graft dilatation. This graft material was suitable for thoracic, visceral, renal and abdominal aortic reconstructions.
Re-Do Operations after Failed Multisegmental Reconstructive Arterial Surgery for Critical Limb Ischaemia
Authors: Zukauskas G. , Ulevicius H. , Janusauskas E.
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the long-term graft patency rates after multisegmental arterial reconstruction for treatment of chronic critical limb ischemia, and to evaluate the role of re-do surgery in treatment of graft failure. A total of 449 aortofemoropopliteal/tibial grafts carried out over a 10-year period were retrospectively reviewed. All patients were operated upon with chronic critical limb ischemia grade III and IV according to the Fontaine classification; 221 operations were performed in one stage (group A), and 228 in two stages (group B). Distribution of graft failures in the postoperative period, re-do operations and their impact on limb salvage were investigated using life-table methods. During follow up, 62 cases of inflow graft thrombosis were observed (23 in group A and 39 in group B). To correct the inflow graft failure, 59 re-do procedures were performed (27 in group A, 32 in group B). Inflow graft failures were most common during 24 months after primary surgery. During the same period, 92 cases of isolated outflow graft thrombosis were observed (45 in group A and 47 in group B). Outflow graft thromboses were most common after 24–36 months. For treatment of recurrent symptoms caused by outflow graft thrombosis, 68 re-do operations were performed. The 5 year cumulative primary graft patency, secondary graft patency and limb salvage rates were 43.2%, 71.8% and 79.9% in group A. and 23.8%, 54% and 67.5% in group B respectively. In conclusion the long term primary graft patency rate after multisegmental aortofemoropopliteal/tibial reconstructive surgery is low and significantly lower, when compared with single segment reconstructions. Re-do operations have a positive impact on secondary long-term graft patency and limb salvage.
Biomechanical Characteristics of Unconditioned and Conditioned Latissimus Dorsi Muscles Used for Cardiocirculatory Assistance
Authors: Radermecker M. A. , Chaussende F. , Struble C. , Grandjean P. A. , Fourny J. , Focant B. , Gerard P. , Serteyn D. , Limet R.
Published: September 2024

An understanding of the biomechanical characteristics of striated skeletal muscles involved in cardiocirculatory assistance is a prerequisite to assess their efficacy and to evaluate their haemodynamic benefits. Six goats had their latissimus dorsi muscles evaluated by isometric strain gauge testing. Total tension, and both active and passive force development at different preloads were measured. The relationship between muscle impedance and starting length was also studied. Four additional muscles were submitted to isometric and isotonic strain gauge testing after 3 months of chronic electrical stimulation (Broussais Hospital protocol) with the contralateral muscle serving as a control. In isometric testing, both conditioned and unconditioned goat latissimus dorsi displayed a Frank-Starling length-tension curve, and a linear relationship between muscle impedance and starting length was found. Chronic stimulation preserved muscle mass and isometric force. Transformed muscles showed a mean 59% reduction of maximal shortening velocity; means (s.d.) residual shortening velocity at maximal work and power output was 0.17(0.07) m/s. The work and power ouput were both reduced 65% after stimulation, and the residual maximal power at optimal preload varied from approximately 7.7 and 9.6 W/kg. It is concluded that, following the Broussais protocol, the goat latissimus dorsi muscle retained mass and most of its isometric force-generating capacity, but lost significant work and power potential. The residual power output did not, however, preclude the possibility of a significant cardiocirculatory contribution, providing that the conditions for optimal energy transduction are adequately delineated.
Pulse Duplicator Hydrodynamics of Four Different Bileaflet Valves in the Mitral Position
Authors: Verdonck P. R. , Nooten G. J. Van , Belleghem Y. Van
Published: September 2024

The hydrodynamic performance of four different types of bileaflet heart valve was tested both in steady flow conditions and in a newly designed computerized artificial left heart system. Four 29-mm valves, manufactured by either St. Jude Medical, CarboMedics, ATS Medical or Medtronic Parallel were studied under a steady state and in pulsatile conditions by pressure and flow recording and colour Doppler echocardiography in the ‘mitral position’ at rest and at exercise (cardiac output range 4–30 l/Min). In the steady state, significant differences were measured at peak flows of 30 l/min, with mean (s.d.) increasing pressure drops (mmHg) recorded at 3.48(0.13) (St. Jude Medical), 3.80(0.11) (Medtronic Parallel), 4.31(0.06) (ATS Medical) ( P < 0.005), and 4.78(0.06) (Carbo Medics), ( P < 0.005). The mean ratio of the closing volume to the stroke volume was comparable for all valves despite one faulty sample. In the pulsatile state the effective orifice area calculated by the Continuity and Gorlin equations decreased from 2.10(0.04) (ATS Medical), 1.95(0.05) (St. Jude Medical), 1.87(0.03) (Carbo Medics) to 1.67(0.02) (Medtronic Parallel) independently of method used. No significant difference was found in the mean ratio of the regurgitant volume to the stroke volume. The performance index, defined as the ratio of effective orifice area to geometric orifice area ranks the valves in the order ATS Medical (0.44), St. Jude Medical (0.43), Carbo Medics (0.41) and Medtronic Parallel (0.38). Regurgitation visible on colour Doppler echo was a mere consequence of the working principle of the bileaflet valves in the mitral position and was by no means hydrodynamically important nor representatire of severe insufficiencies. Differences between the valve types were notable under severe conditions, such as high peak flow.
Re-Graft Patency and Clinical Efficacy of Aprotinin in Elective Bypass Surgery
Authors: Lass M. , Simic O. , Ostermeyer J.
Published: September 2024

To investigate possible influence of aprotinin on graft patency, a randomized, double-blind group comparative study was carried out in male patients selected for primary bypass surgery. One hundred and ten patients received either placebo treatment or aprotinin according to the Hammersmith Hospital regimen ( n = 55 per group). Graft patency was evaluated by angiography in 44 aprotinin and 35 placebo patients between the 18th and 35th day postoperatively. There was no difference in overall graft occlusion. Among the aprotinin patients, 73% (32/44) hsd grafts patent compared with 71% (25/35) of the placebo group. Graft occlusion was not accompanied by signs of myocardial infarction in any case. Blood loss within 6 h postoperatively was reduced by 58.5% in the aprotinin group ( P < 0.001). of these patients 51% (26/51) did not need donor blood compared with 21% (10/47) of the placebo patients ( P = 0.003). Mean transfusion requirements per patient were 1.1 and 2.7 units in the aprotinin and placebo groups, respectively.
Steal Syndrome Complicating Hemodialysis Access
Authors: DeCaprio J. D. , Valentine R. J. , Kakish H. B. , Awad R. , Hagino R. T. , Clagett G. P.
Published: September 2024

The purposes of this study were to examine potential causes for arterial steal syndrome in patients with hemodialysis shunts and to evaluate the results of treatment. A retrospective analysis was performed on all hemodialysis patients who presented with arterial steal syndrome over a 3-year period. Medical records were reviewed to determine demographic data, time to development of symptoms, operative details, and treatment outcome. Results of upper-extremity arteriography in the last five patients were also documented. Eighteen patients presented with steal syndrome at a mean of 7(4) months after shunt placement. Four patients had prior ipsilateral grafts. Fifteen (83%) patients had forearm shunts in loop configuration between the main brachial artery and a superficial vein, and three had straight upper-arm shunts. Graft sizes were 6 mm in five patients and 4- to 7 step grafts in 13. Graft banding was used to treat steal in 11 shunts, one of which remained patent. All five patients who underwent upper-extremity arteriography had arterial stenoses demonstrated in the inflow circulation. In conclusion, arterial steal is an uncommon complication of hemodialysis shunts. Shunt location and choice of graft do not appear to be major factors: steal can develop regardless of access site, configuration, or use of straight versus step graft. Banding is an ineffective method of treatment. Arteriography may be important to detect unsuspected inflow stenoses in patients with steal syndrome.
Changes in the Morphology and Components of the Coronary Arteries during the Progression of Coronary Arteriosclerosis following Cardiac Transplantation in Rats
Authors: Hamano K. , Ito H. , Fujimura Y. , Tsuboi H. , Esato K.
Published: September 2024

In order to examine the changes in coronary artery morphology following cardiac transplantation, the intimal and medial areas and vascular components were measured 30 and 60 days postoperatively in rats receiving both iso- ( n = 5, each time) and allotransplantations ( n = 7, each time). Although cyclosporine A was administered intramuscularly (10 mg/kg per day) for 20 days following transplantation, graft rejection progressed gradually in the allotransplanted group. There were no clear changes in the intimal or medial areas following transplantation in the isotransplanted group. The intimal area of the coronary arteries in the allograft group was significantly thicker 30 and 60 days following transplantation, while the medial area of the coronary arteries in this group was significantly thinner than that of the isotransplantation group at these same time points. In the thickened intimal areas in the allotransplantation group, only the density of smooth muscle cells was higher following transplantation. In the thinned medial areas in the allotransplantation group, the densities of the smooth muscle cells and collagen were less than those in the isotransplantation group. These changes suggest that following transplantation, smooth muscle cells proliferate in the intimal areas, while smooth muscle cells and collagen are degraded in the medial areas.
The Role of Thrombolytic Therapy in the Management of Paradoxical Embolism
Authors: d'Audiffret A. , Shenoy S. S. , Ricotta J. J. , Dryjski M.
Published: September 2024

Paradoxical emboli are considered a rare event, representing less than 2% of all arterial emboli. The most common intracardiac defect associated with paradoxical emboli is a patent foramen ovale. Most commonly, a pulmonary embolism is the cause of the acute increase in right atrial pressure leading to a reversal of intracardiac flow and passage of venous embolic material to the left heart. We present a patient with a pulmonary embolism and paradoxical emboli, and discuss therapeutic approach. We suggest that the treatment of choice for the patient with pulmonary embolism and non-limb-threatening acute ischemia due to a paradoxical emboli should be thrombolytic therapy and intracaval filter placement, followed by patent foramen ovale repair.
Poor Outcome in Patients Aged over 80 with Limb-Threatening Ischaemia
Authors: Davies B. , Heather B. P. , Earnshaw J. J.
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study was to determine the outcome in a consecutive series of patients over 80 years of age with limb-threatening ischaemia. The authors performed a retrospective case-note review of the treatment and outcome in 108 patients with 131 episodes of leg ischaemia, who presented to a vascular unit between 1992–1996 inclusively. Some 73 (56%) episodes of leg ischaemia occurred in patients suitable for active treatment (limb salvage 75%, amputation 4% and death 21%). Results were inferior in patients not actively treated (limb salvage 19%, amputation 50% and death 31%). Elderly patients not selected for active treatment have a very poor outcome and are seldom mentioned in publications. In future, clinical reports should include actively treated and rejected patients to avoid selection bias. Research should focus on the selection process and alternative therapies.
Justification of Intervention for Limb-Threatening Ischemia: A Surgical Decision Analysis
Authors: Brothers T. E. , Rios G. A. , Robison J. G. , Elliott B. M.
Published: September 2024

Intervention for vascular occlusive disease of the distal lower extremity in elderly patients will inevitably be scrutinized as medical resources decline. The authors applied surgical decision analysis to three treatment options: revascularization, amputation and expectant management. The appropriate outcome probabilities were derived from our experience with revascularization to the tibial and pedal vessels, and utility scores were obtained by formalized patient assessment. Revascularization was predicted to improve patient outcome by 1.10 quality-adjusted life-years compared with primary amputation and by 1.16 quality-adjusted life-years compared with expectant management. To gain one additional quality-adjusted life-years, revascularization would cost $5280 more than expectant management, but $33,900 less than primary amputation. Sensitivity analysis predicted revascularization to be the least costly treatment per quality-adjusted life-years as long as 1-month patency exceeds 11 %. Revascularization for limb-threatening ischemia of the distal lower extremity is justified and can be performed at a reasonable cost.
Cerebral Blood Flow and Oxygen Metabolism during Cardiopulmonary Bypass with Moderate Hypothermic Selective Cerebral Perfusion
Authors: Igari T. , Hoshino S. , Iwaya F. , Ando S.
Published: September 2024

Cerebral blood flow was measured using transcranial doppler during cardiopulmonary bypass in nine patients with selective cerebral perfusion for surgery of arch aorta (group S). For comparison, 11 adult open heart patients (group C) were also measured. The authors' selective cerebral perfusion at 28°C resulted in moderate hypothermia and antegrade perfusion using independent pumps for three branches. Total flow in the three branches was 500 ml/min. A Labodop DP-100 doppler ultrasound velocimeter was used to measure middle cerebral arterial blood flow velocity. Hemoglobin concentration and oxygen saturation were also measured in arterial and jugular venous blood. The arteriovenous oxygen content difference (Ca-vO2) was calculated and multiplied by the middle cerebral arterial blood flow velocity value, which resulted in the cerebral metabolic rate for oxygen (CMRO2). The cerebral perfusion pressure of group S was lower than in group C, and the arterial carbon-dioxide tension (PaCO2) of group S was higher than in group C during cardiopulmonary bypass. Middle cerebral arterial blood flow velocity values of both groups remained constant before, during and after cardiopulmonary bypass. The CMRO2 decreased during cardiopulmonary bypass and showed no difference between the two groups. The changes in PaCO2 might be significant factors in the increase in cerebral blood flow during selective cerebral perfusion. This study supports the conclusion that, compared with our routine open heart surgery procedures, our selective cerebral perfusion procedures had the same cerebral blood flow and oxygen metabolism during cardiopulmonary bypass.
Lumbar Sympathectomy in Critical Limb Ischaemia: Surgical, Chemical or Not at All?
Authors: Holiday F. A. C. , Barendregt W. B. , Slappendel R. , Crul B. J. P. , Buskens F. G. M. , van der Vliet J. A.
Published: September 2024

The value of surgical and chemical lumbar sympathectomy was studied in patients with critical lower-limb ischaemia without the option of vascular reconstruction. Clinical success rates, defined as improvement of ischaemia stage, and limb salvage rates were recorded for 76 limbs of 70 consecutive patients. Chemical lumbar sympathectomy patients were older and had more concomitant diseases than surgical lumbar sympathectomy patients. The short-term (6-week) success rate in 36 cases treated with surgical lumbar sympathectomy (44%) was better than in 40 cases treated with chemical lumbar sympathectomy (18%) ( P = 0.01). The long-term (1-year) success rate was 47% for surgical lumbar sympathectomy and 45% for chemical lumbar sympathectomy ( P = NS). The 1-year limb salvage rates were 61% for surgical lumbar sympathectomy and 58% for chemical lumbar sympathectomy ( P = NS). Complications were minor in both groups. Lumbar sympathectomy still has a limited role in the treatment of critical limb ischaemia in patients without the option of vascular reconstruction. Both surgical and chemical lumbar sympathectomy can be performed with very little morbidity and may provide a benefit over the natural course of the arterial insufficiency.
A Prospective Randomized Multicentre Comparison of Expanded Polytetrafluoroethylene and Gelatin-Sealed Knitted Dacron Grafts for Femoropopliteal Bypass
Authors: Robinson B. I. , Fletcher J. P. , Tomlinson P. , Allen R. D. M. , Hazelton S. J. , Richardson A. J. , Stuchbery K.
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

To compare graft patency between expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) and gelatin-sealed knitted Dacron for femoropopliteal bypass.

Methods:

A prospective, multicentre trial was performed in 108 patients randomized to receive either a PTFE or Dacron prosthetic graft. Distal anastomosis was above knee in 75 and below knee in 33 patients.

Results:

Primary patency at 1, 2 and 3 years was 72, 52 and 52% for PTFE, and 70, 56 and 47% for Dacron ( P = 0.87). Secondary patency at 1, 2 and 3 years was 74, 54 and 54% for PTFE and 78, 70 and 53% for Dacron ( P = 0.39). The most significant predictors of early graft failure were poor vessel run-off ( P = 0.04) and critical limb ischaemia ( P = 0.04).

Conclusion:

There was no difference in graft patency between PTFE and Dacron for femoropopliteal bypass.
Indications and Benefits of Simultaneous Endoluminal Balloon Angioplasty and Open Surgery during Elective Lower Limb Revascularization
Authors: Melliere D. , Cron J. , Allaire E. , Desgranges P. , Becquemin J. P.
Published: September 2024

Combined balloon angioplasty and conventional revascularization are occasionally performed but some points are still controversial: which patients are eligible for this associated procedure?; should the procedures be performed simultaneously or successively?; and in case of simultaneous procedure, which one should be performed first? To answer these questions, the notes of 64 patients consecutively submitted to this procedure at the Henri Mondor hospital were reviewed. Arterial dilatation was performed on the iliac artery, superficial femoral artery, popliteal artery or tibioperoneal trunk in 31. 26, four and four patients, respectively. Reasons for simultaneous procedures were multiple occlusive lesions in 67% of patients and inflow improvement in 14%. The others reasons included iliac obstruction in poor risk patients, unilateral failure of planned bilateral iliac balloon angioplasty, outflow improvement, local contraindication to arterial approach, shortness of vein graft, clamp injury during open surgery and inadequate patient position for both procedures. Complications were rare. One patient died of recurrent sepsis of the femoro-femoral bypass. The 5-year limb salvage rate was 91%. In this study, simultaneous procedures were associated with three advantages: the risk of septic complications associated with graft implantations in a previously punctured site was decreased, anticoagulant and/or antiplatelet therapy did not need to be modified before the second procedure, hospital length of stay and cost appeared to be lower. On a simultaneous procedure, it is recommended that the balloon angioplasty be performed after the conventional procedure in order to avoid clamping a recently dilated artery when performing the bypass.
The Significance of Early Postoperative Duplex Studies following Carotid Endarterectomy
Authors: Cantelmo N. L. , Gordon J. K. , Hyde C. , Samaraweera R. N.
Published: September 2024

This study was conducted to evaluate the significance of duplex ultrasound performed soon after carotid endarterectomy. The records of patients with 150 carotid endarterectomies and postoperative duplex ultrasound within 24 h were reviewed. Eleven (7.3%) had abnormal studies with ≥ 50% stenosis. Two patients with abnormal studies sustained a perioperative stroke and three patients underwent reoperation for persistent lesions ( P < 0.0001). Preoperative and postoperative cerebral imaging studies (computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)) were performed on 114 patients. Seven of these demonstrated areas of infarction and all seven had abnormal duplex ultrasound studies. Twenty-six CT scans were performed with two positive for cerebral infarction in the two patients with clinical stroke. In the 88 MRI studies, five demonstrated small, subcortical focal areas of Ischemia, which were clinically silent. The relationship of infarction on postoperative cerebral studies and abnormal postoperative duplex ultrasound was significant ( P < 0.0001). It was concluded that early postoperative duplex ultrasound studies of ≥ 50% stenosis demonstrate significant association with postoperative stroke or reoperation, as well as with ischemic changes on brain imaging studies. Earlier detection with intraoperative duplex would probably be more advantageous than postoperative duplex ultrasound.
Femoral Anastomotic Aneurysms: Pathogenic Factors, Clinical Presentations and Treatment. A Study of 142 Cases
Authors: Demarche M. , Waltregny D. , van Damme H. , Limet R.
Published: September 2024

In this study, the files of 112 patients with a total of 142 femoral anastomotic aneurysms were reviewed. Eighty-five patients (76%) were initially operated upon for obstructive aorto-iliac disease, while the remaining 27 (24%) had abdominal aortic aneurysms repaired. The majority of the patients (104/112) were male and their mean age was 64.5 years (range 45–88). Ninety-three per cent of the subjects were smokers prior to the first operation and 43% continued to smoke at the time of their femoral anastomotic aneurysms operation. The mean delay between the initial surgery and the repair of the femoral anastomotic aneurysms was 74.5 months (range 1–228). The diagnosis was made because of a painless pulsatile mass (91/142). acute leg ischaemia (27/142), a painful pulsatile mass (12/142). haemorrhage (10/142), pseudo-post-phlebitic oedema (1/142) and microemboli of the toes (1/142). The operative mortality was 2.7% (3/112) of which two-thirds were patients with infected grafts. Two subgroups were distinguished: 10 patients with an infected femoral anastomotic aneurysm and 12 patients with recurrent femoral anastomotic aneurysms, 11 with a single recurrence and one with a double recurrence. In the infected group, the time to development of anastomotic aneurysm was shorter than for the group with non-infected femoral anastomotic aneurysms (41 versus 74.5 months) and the operative mortality was 20% (2/10). One patient developed a recurrent femoral anastomotic aneurysm and another was lost to follow-up. Two subsequent deaths occurred, which were unrelated to the femoral anastomotic aneurysms. In the group of recurrent femoral anastomotic aneurysms one patient was lost to follow-up and two patients died, but not as a result of recurrent femoral anastomotic aneurysms. A total of 122 cases underwent interposition of a new prosthetic segment between the proximal prosthesis and the distal artery (89 at the common femoral, 21 at the femoral profundis, eight at the superficial femoral and four at an existing femoro-popliteal graft).
Atrial Isomerism: A Surgical Experience
Authors: Sinzobahamvya N. , Arenz C. , Brecher A. M. , Urban A. E.
Published: September 2024

Most publications on atrial isomerism are autopsy or case reports. The authors review 41 consecutive children operated on from 1980 through to 1996 with emphasis on associated cardiac anomalies, surgical procedures and outcome. Left atrial isomerism was present in 23 patients. Interruption of the inferior vena cava (56%). atrio-ventricular septal defect (47%), common atrium (38%) and cor triatriatum sinistrum (30%) were the most common diagnoses. Biventricular repair was achieved in 17 children and total cavo-pulmonary connection in two. Three underwent staged palliation: modified Blalock—Taussig shunt for two and bidirectional Glenn anastomosis for one. The remainder received a cardiac pacemaker. One patient died early after repair. Two underwent reoperation to correct a regurgitant left atrio-ventricular valve: one of these, in another hospital, had peroperative death. Three died later. Actuarial survival rate after repair and total cavo-pulmonary connection that was stabilized after 2 years was 84%. In the 18 children with right atrial isomerism, pulmonary atresia or stenosis predominated (89%) with discordant ventriculo-arterial connection (72%). atrio-ventricular septal defect (72%), ‘single’ ventricle (55%) and extracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage (50%). Biventricular repair was achieved in two patients and complete Fontan circulation in eight. The other eight underwent various staged palliative procedures and correction of extracardiac total anomalous pulmonary venous drainage. Five patients died postoperatively: two in our unit after modified Blalock-Taussig shunt and total cavo-pulmonary connection, three In other hospitals after repair ( n = 1) and Fontan ( n = 2). Five died later. One was lost for review. Survival after repair and Fontan stabilized after 6 months at 49%. In conclusion, the cardiovascular malformations associated with left atrial isomerism can often be successfully corrected. Those accompanying right atrial isomerism usually preclude a biventricular repair, require staged palliation and carry a poor prognosis.
Preoperative Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Newborns with Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection
Authors: Ishino K. , Alexi-Meskishvili V. , Hetzer R.
Published: September 2024

This report describes three neonates who were supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation before surgical correction of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was initially used to treat preoperative end-organ failure and suspected persistent pulmonary hypertension. All patients underwent surgical correction of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection after 8. 4 and 4 days of preoperative support, respectively. Two of these patients required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation after surgery; one died from bleeding while the other was weaned from extracorporeal membrane oxygenation on day 8 and discharged from the hospital. These results show that veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation represents a life-saving perioperative means for supporting moribund neonates with total anomalous pulmonary venous connection and is effective in improving preoperative patient's condition.
Surgical Venous Thrombectomy
Authors: Juhan C. , Alimi Y. , Di Mauro P. , Hartung O.
Published: September 2024

Rehabilitation of the technique of venous thrombectomy is justified, but, in order for this technique to be effective, it must only be performed in selected cases. In the authors' view it is of the utmost value in young patients when the venous thrombosis occurs accidentally, after traumatism or surgery and when a diagnostic is made without delay.
Takayasu's Arteritis with Renovascular Hypertension: Results of Surgical Treatment
Authors: Teoh M. K.
Published: September 2024

Renal artery stenosis caused by Takayasu's arteritis is an important cause of hypertension in young patients in the Far East. The role of surgery in Takayasu's arteritis is not as well-defined as in atherosclerosis or fibromuscular dysplasia. In this retrospective review, the author reports the results of 19 renal artery reconstructions in 12 young patients (median age 23.5 years, range 10–46 years) presenting with renovascular hypertension and Takayasu's arteritis, and discusses the different surgical options. The procedures performed included aortorenal bypass using vein (five), aortorenal bypass using polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) (eight), iliorenal bypass using vein (four), reimplantation of renal artery (one) and aortic replacement graft-renal bypass (one). Postoperatively, all 12 patients had a successful outcome with improved hypertension. There was no perioperative mortality, and complications included two early graft thrombosis and one late graft occlusion. These results support the view that surgical treatment for renovascular hypertension in Takaysu's disease is safe and effective.
Mergers and Acquisitions in the Banking Sector: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Chakraborty Baishali , Das Ashim Kumar
Published: September 2024

Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) have developed into a powerful strategic tool for consolidating banks to boost their capital bases, grow their businesses and bring about financial stability. Since the 1990s, the number of M&As has dramatically increased around the globe. This study attempts to provide a systematic review of recent M&A literature that has examined the different themes of M&As and their impact on the performance of the banking sector with an emphasis on 2013–2023. The objective of the study is to identify the important research gaps and provide direction for future research. Thus, it shows the past and recent status of M&A literature worldwide. The review has identified different themes of M&As, which include financial and operating performance, integration of technology, geographic strategies, corporate governance, cross-border M&As, size of banks, shareholders’ return, risk and loan quality, expertize and ownership. The findings indicate that research on M&As from the financial and operating performance perspective provides inconclusive results. Recently, research on cross-border M&As and integration of technology has been increasing as it provides a competitive edge to the acquirer. Results also suggest that the market considers the merger news positively for target banks, and geographic diversification and hiring financial experts in M&As improve the performance of the banks.