bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Spatial Regulation of Inflammation by Human Aortic Endothelial Cells in a Linear Gradient of Shear Stress
Authors: Tsou Jean K. , Gower R. Michael , Ting Harold J. , Schaff Ulrich Y. , Insana Michael F. , Passerini Anthony G. , Simon Scott I. 
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACTObjective: Atherosclerosis is a focal disease that develops at sites of low and oscillatory shear stress in arteries. This study aimed to understand how endothelial cells sense a gradient of fluid shear stress and transduce signals that regulate membrane expression of cell adhesion molecules and monocyte recruitment. Methods: Human aortic endothelial cells were stimulated with TNF‐α and simultaneously exposed to a linear gradient of shear stress that increased from 0 to 16 dyne/cm2. Cell adhesion molecule expression and activation of NFκ B were quantified by immunofluorescence microscopy with resolution at the level of a single endothelial cell. Monocyte recruitment was imaged using custom microfluidic flow chambers. Results: VCAM‐1 and E‐selectin upregulation was greatest between 2–4 dyne/cm2 (6 and 4‐fold, respectively) and above 8 dyne/cm2 expression was suppressed below that of untreated endothelial cells. In contrast, ICAM‐1 expression and NFκ B nuclear translocation increased with shear stress up to a maximum at 9 dyne/cm2. Monocyte recruitment was most efficient in regions where E‐selectin and VCAM‐1 expression was greatest. Conclusions: We found that the endothelium can sense a change in shear stress on the order of 0.25 dyne/cm2 over a length of ∼ 10 cells, regulating the level of protein transcription, cellular adhesion molecule expression, and leukocyte recruitment during inflammation.
Endoscopic Vascular Harvest in Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials and Controlled Trials
Authors: Cheng Davy , Allen Keith , Cohn William , Connolly Mark , Edgerton James , Falk Volkmar , Martin Janet , Ohtsuka Toshiya , Vitali Richard 
Published: May 2008

Objective This meta-analysis sought to determine whether endoscopic vascular graft harvesting (EVH) improves clinical and resource outcomes compared with conventional open graft harvesting (OVH) in adults undergoing coronary artery bypass surgery. Methods A comprehensive search was undertaken to identify all randomized and nonrandomized trials of EVH versus OVH up to April 2005. The primary outcome was wound complications. Secondary outcomes included any other clinical morbidity and resource utilization. Odds ratios (OR), weighted mean differences (WMD), or standardized mean differences (SMD) and their 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) were analyzed. Results Thirty-six trials of 9,632 patients undergoing saphenous vein harvest met the inclusion criteria (13 randomized; 23 nonrandomized). Risk of wound complications was significantly reduced by EVH compared with OVH (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.23–0.41). Similarly, the risk of wound infections was significantly reduced (OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.20–0.53; P < 0.0001). Need for surgical wound intervention was also significantly reduced (OR 0.16, 95% CI 0.08–0.29). The incidence of pain, neuralgia, and patient satisfaction was improved with EVH compared with OVH. Postoperative myocardial infarction, stroke, reintervention for ischemia or angina recurrence, and mortality were not significantly different. Operative time was significantly increased (WMD 15.26 minutes; 95% CI 0.01, 30.51), hospital length of stay was reduced (WMD −0.85 days; 95% CI −1.55, −0.15), and readmissions were reduced (OR 0.53, 95% CI 0.29–0.98). Costs were insufficiently reported to allow for aggregate analysis. Conclusions Endoscopic vascular graft harvesting of the saphenous vein reduces wound complications and improves patient satisfaction and resource utilization. Further research is required to determine the incremental cost-effectiveness of EVH versus OVH.
Proposal for a Novel Concept of a Hybrid, Minimally Invasive Cardiovascular Surgical Practice
Authors: Sherif Hisham M.F. 
Published: May 2008

Background Due to the increase in new Interventional cardiovascular technologies, traditional lines of division between the interventional and surgical aspects are expected to blur, with these procedures modified and adopted into cardiovascular surgical practice. This proposal introduces new concepts and visions for such new devices and procedures. Methods I-Precision Planning II-Examples of Proposed Devices III-Examples of Proposed Procedures Results Over the past few years there has been a growing sense of anxiety about new interventional devices in the cardiovascular surgical community. As physicians, our main task is to formulate simpler, more effective and safer solutions to clinical problems; and as surgeons, we “devise mechanical solutions to clinical problems.” Conclusions Nowadays, there is an urgent need for the cardiovascular surgical community to rediscover and reinvent itself. We should see these new innovations as exciting new ideas and tools that we can “modify, simplify and apply” to revitalize our own practice.
Computer-Mediated Power Stapling for Anatomical Lung Resection: Experience in 100 Consecutive Cases
Authors: Vigneswaran Wickii T. , Gruner Charles 
Published: May 2008

Objectives Mechanical stapling is widely used for lung resection. Complications related to the stapling are few but not infrequent. This varies from complete disruption of the staples to incomplete sealing of vascular structures. A stapling platform that has a strong clamping force with precise and consistent staple formation suitable for thickness of tissue is likely to be an advance in existing devices and may reduce the complication rate. A new, computer-mediated power stapling is currently available for lung resections, with three types of digital loading units (DLU). Clinical data on its use are limited. We report our experience with this stapling platform (SurgASSIST) in our first 100 patients undergoing anatomic lung resection. Methods Fifty-four men and forty-six women (mean age, 64 ± 7 years) underwent anatomic lung resections, using a lateral, muscle-sparing mini-thoracotomy, during 2004 to 2005, with the SurgASSIST platform. Three types of DLUs were used for lung resection: a linear cutter, a right-angled vascular cutter, and a right-angled bronchial cutter. Observational data were collected prospectively on the operative procedure, type of staples used, duration of operation, chest tube drainage, and hospital length of stay. Results There were 83 lobectomies, 5 bilobectomies, 5 segmental resections, and 7 pneumonectomies. A total of 502 DLUs (mean, 5 per patient; 102 vascular, 91 bronchial, and 309 linear cutters) were used in this series. There were no major operative complications. The mean operating time was 136 ± 41 minutes. One bronchial dehiscence and one incomplete sealing of the pulmonary vein in the staple line were observed. In one patient, the linear cutter could not be opened in the automatic setting. There were 15% misreads by the computer on the DLU or their inserts. There was one hospital death unrelated to the stapling. Twenty additional complications included prolonged chest tube drainage (n = 8), reoperations (n = 2), atrial fibrillation (n = 5), hemothorax (n = 1), chylothorax (n = 1), C-dif colitis (n = 1), myocardial ischemia (n = 1), and incarcerated ventral hernia (n = 1). The median hospital length of stay was 5 days (range, 3 to 26 days) and the median length of chest tube drainage was 3 days (1 to 22 days). Conclusions Our experience shows that the computer-mediated power stapling of lung parenchyma and hilar structures during anatomic resection is safe and reproducible.
Use of the Navigator Probe after Radiotracer Injection to Identify Nonpalpable Rib Lesions Requiring Surgical Resection
Authors: Erdem Can Caglar , Daly Benedict , Ketchedjian Ara , Stone Michael , Shemin Richard , Shah Nirav P. , Fernando Hiran 
Published: May 2008

Background Patients with nonpalpable rib lesions (NPRL) requiring biopsy present a challenging problem for the thoracic surgeon. Ideally, a small incision directly over the NPRL should be performed to minimize morbidity, particularly if the lesion is benign. The Navigator probe is routinely used after lymphoscintigraphy by surgical oncologists to isolate sentinel lymph nodes requiring removal, but can also be used to guide resection of nonpalpable focal rib lesions demonstrating increased technetium-99m hydroxymethylene diphosphonate (Tc-99m HDP) uptake. This report describes our initial experience with this technique. Methods Over a 5-month period, 3 patients with focal NPRL underwent rib resection. All patients had solitary lesions demonstrated on recently performed Tc-99m HDP bone scanning. Prior cancers were reported in 2 patients, and pain in 2 patients. Before surgery, all patients underwent intravenous injection of 20 to 25 mCi Tc-99m HDP at least 2 hours before the Navigator probe-guided procedure. Results The Navigator probe identified all 3 lesions, allowing a single 4 cm or smaller incision in all cases. Histology included metastatic breast cancer (1), pathologic fracture secondary to metastatic palatal cancer (1), and eosinophilic granuloma (1). No patient required further resection. Conclusions Intraoperative localization of NPRL that are positive on Tc-99m HDP bone scanning using the Navigator probe is feasible and was 100% successful in our initial experience. This technique allows a minimally invasive approach, which is beneficial for those patients who do not require further resection.
Thoracoscopic Approach to Epicardial Lead Implantation in Adult Patients with Previous Congenital Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Vassiliades Thomas A. , McConnell Michael E. , Book Wendy M. 
Published: May 2008

Background Substantial technical challenges exist in placing transvenous pacing leads in the heterogeneous adult congenital heart disease patient population. Anatomical issues including occlusion of central veins, single ventricle physiology, and lack of transvenous access to systemic right ventricles, often require thoracotomy for epicardial lead placement. Methods We assessed the feasibility of performing a totally thoracoscopic approach to epicardial pacing lead implantation in 10 adult patients (mean age 32.5 years) with congenital heart disease. The underlying cardiac anatomy consisted of transposition of the great arteries, status post (s/p) Mustard procedure (3); tricuspid atresia, s/p Fontan procedure (3); congenitally corrected transposition (1); Ebstein's anomaly, s/p tricuspid valve replacement (1); AV canal, s/p repair (1); and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, s/p myomectomy (1). Twenty-six previous cardiac operations (mean 2.8 per patient) had been performed in this group. Results Indications for thoracoscopic lead insertion included primary rhythm disturbances, progressive heart failure with a QRS>120 milliseconds, and an unapproachable coronary sinus or failed transvenous lead insertion. All patients underwent thoracoscopic implantation of 2 epicardial leads to the systemic ventricle and generator insertion. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) was used in all cases, which facilitated port placement. Measurements at operation showed mean threshold of 2.0V (95% CI 0.9–3.1V at 0.5 milliseconds) and a mean impedance of 1259 Ohms (95% CI 418–2100). There were no procedural related complications and no patient required conversion to an open procedure. Seventy percent of patients were extubated immediately after the procedure and were discharged from the intensive care unit within 24 hours. There was 1 noncardiac death due to gastrointestinal ischemia. Conclusion Adults with congenital heart disease present significant challenges to pacing lead implantation including variability of the location of the systemic ventricle, coronary sinus anatomy, right-sided valve replacement, a small thoracic cavity, limited vascular access, and adhesions from prior cardiac procedures. Additionally, thoracoscopy has been previously considered a contraindication in this subgroup of patients. However, we have demonstrated that with careful preoperative planning and the assistance of TEE, a totally thoracoscopic approach to epicardial lead implantation is both feasible and safe.
Robotic Mitral Valve Repairs Requiring Reoperations
Authors: Rodriguez Evelio , Chu Michael W. A. , Narron John , Gersch Karen , Nifong L. Wiley , Chitwood W. Randolph 
Published: May 2008

Objective Robotic mitral valve (MV) repairs are performed at many institutions. Repair failures have been attributed to the challenging technology and potentially to the use of annuloplasty band anchoring U-clips. The purpose of this study was to characterize causes of robotic MV repair failure. Methods A total of 300 patients underwent a da Vinci robotic MV repair between May 2000 and November 2006 by a single operating console surgeon. Standard repair techniques and a Cosgrove annuloplasty band were used in every case. Clinical data in patients requiring a reoperation, as well as videos of their original operation, were reviewed. MV pathology, repair methods, and findings at reoperation were determined. Results Sixteen (5.3%) patients required reoperation. Seven (7%) failures occurred in the first 100 cases and 9 (4.5%) in the last 200 cases. Initial MV pathology included isolated anterior (n = 4) or posterior leaflet prolapse (n = 6), bileaflet prolapse (n = 3), and annular dilation (n = 3). Reoperations after their initial operation were required early (<6 months) in 8 patients and later in 8 patients. Reasons for reoperation included CHF (n = 9), hemolysis (n = 4), systolic anterior leaflet motion (n = 2), and endocarditis (n = 1). At reoperation, 7 patients had partial dehiscence of the annuloplasty band. The incidence of band dehiscence was not associated with the use of U-clips and decreased with experience. Conclusions Reoperative rates seemed to decrease with increased case volume and surgeon's experience. Repair results using robotic techniques are similar to conventional techniques. The use of U-clips is not associated with a higher reoperation rate.
The Use of the Mini-Cardiopulmonary Bypass Circuit in Robotic Mitral Valve Surgery
Authors: Emery Robert W. , Raikar Goya V. , Murphy Barbara , Rohan Anton , Nielsen Kris 
Published: May 2008

Background Computer enabled robotic mitral valve repair cases have longer cross-clamp and perfusion times because of the more technically difficult procedure. To modify some of the well-documented side effects of standard cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), we used a new mini-circuit on three robotic mitral cases. Methods Three patients having mitral valve repair (triangular resection of P2 and annuloplasty ring) using the daVinci Robot (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA) had circulatory support using a modified Resting Heart System (Medtronic, Inc., Fridley, MN), a vertically oriented space saving CPB configuration incorporating a high efficiency miniaturized oxygenator, centrifugal pump, shortened heparin coated tubing and an air evacuation system with a closed circuit. Results All patients had successful mitral repair (echo = 0 to trace residual leakage) under a cross-clamp time of 161 ± 54 minutes and perfusion time of 229 ± 31 minutes. No blood was given during CPB and 0.7 ± 1.2 red cell units after the CPB run and 0.7 ± 1.2 units during the postoperative course. Conclusion Miniaturized bypass circuit reducing the level of necessary anticoagulation, hemodilation, and blood trauma can be used despite the increased perfusion time necessary for robotic mitral surgery.
Epicardial Atrial Ablation Using a Novel Articulated Robotic Medical Probe via a Percutaneous Subxiphoid Approach
Authors: Ota Takeyoshi , Degani Amir , Zubiate Brett , Wolf Alon , Choset Howie , Schwartzman David , Zenati Marco A. 
Published: May 2008

ObjectiveMinimally invasive epicardial atrial ablation to cure atrial fibrillation through the use of a percutaneous subxiphoid approach currently has a lack of dedicated technology for intrapericardial navigation around the beating heart. We have developed a novel articulated robotic medical probe and performed preliminary experiments in a porcine preparation.MethodsIn five large, healthy pigs, the teleoperated robotic system was introduced inside the pericardial space through a percutaneous subxiphoid approach. Secondary visualization of the left atrium and left atrial appendage was achieved with the use of a 5-mm scope inserted through a left thoracic port. The operator actively controlled the path of the robot by using a master manipulator. The catheter, with an irrigated radiofrequency tip, was guided through the working port of the robot to achieve epicardial ablation of the left atrium.ResultsAccess to the pericardial space and progression around the left atrium was successful in all cases, with no interference with the beating heart such as a fatal arrhythmia, unexpected bleeding, and hypotension. Epicardial ablation was successfully performed in all five cases. No adverse hemodynamic or electrophysiological events were noted during the trials. When the animals were killed, there was no visually detected injury on the surrounding mediastinal structures caused by ablation. Transmural ablation was confirmed by histopathology of the left atrium.ConclusionsWe have developed a dedicated articulated robotic medical probe and successfully performed epicardial left atrial radiofrequency ablation. Based on the feedback from these preliminary experiments, the radius of curvature and proper visualization of the device are being improved in the next generation prototype.
Use of Peripheral Ultrafiltration in the Postoperative Cardiac Surgery Patient
Authors: Emery Robert W. , Hommerding Jan , Emery Ann M. , Holter Arlen R. , Raikar Goya V. 
Published: May 2008

Background After cardiac surgery, most patients have development of third-space fluid retention, commonly treated with diuretics. In some patients diuretics are ineffective. In this subset, a simplified system for ultrafiltration was used for fluid extraction. Methods After obtaining permission from the institutional review board, the hospital charts of the first 30 patients having ultrafiltration were retrospectively reviewed to abstract data on fluid extraction and patient outcomes. Data are expressed as mean ± standard deviation. Results From April 2004 through January 2006, 30 patients were selected for ultrafiltration. In one patient, adequate intravenous access could not be obtained. There were 11 female and 18 male (age, 69 ± 12 years) postoperative cardiac surgery patients. The mean ultrafiltration run was 10.5 ± 9 hours, resulting in fluid extraction of 3528 ± 2111 mL per run and 5596 ± 3870 mL per patient (11 patients had more than 1 run). Hospital stay was 9.4 ± 4.4 days. Three patients died unrelated to ultrafiltration. Conclusions Ultrafiltration as an alternative means of fluid extraction in postoperative cardiac surgery patients was effective and well tolerated.
Can Surgeons Do Complete Revascularization in Diabetic Patients Using the Off-Pump Technique?
Authors: Arom Kitipan V. , Jotisakulratana Vibul , Pitiguagool Vitoon , Banyatpiyaphod Sujit , Asawapiyanond Sawat , Pamornsing Piyapan , Suwannakijboriharn Chokchai , Ruengsakulrach Permyos 
Published: May 2008

Background The arguments are discussed as to whether or not to proceed with multivessel percutaneous coronary intervention, with or without a drug-eluting stent, in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM), including (1) surgeons unable to complete revascularization because of smaller native arteries; and (2) diabetic patients being sicker and having higher operative mortality rates than nondiabetic patients (non-DM), particularly with the conventional coronary artery bypass surgery (on-pump) technique. To support or dispute the claims, a retrospective review of 480 consecutive patients at a single institution (195 DM and 285 non-DM) was carried out. Observations were made to see whether diabetes is a predictor of poor outcomes. Materials and Methods The preoperative comorbidity, intraoperative measurement of the size of the artery at the site of anastomosis with different gauged probes, and the number of grafts per patient were recorded. Intraoperative and postoperative variables between two groups were compared. The observed number of grafts (O) after surgery was compared with the number of grafts predicted (P) before surgery. The O/P ratio or “completion index” of ≥1 signifies complete revascularization. Logistic regression analysis was used to test the possibility that diabetes is a predictor of poor outcomes. Results Diabetic patients were older, with more comorbidity (congestive heart failure, peripheral vascular diseases, dialysis-dependent). The number of grafts per patient was 4.2 ± 1.3 (DM) and 4.2 ± 1.3 (non-DM). The size of 742 DM and 949 non-DM arteries were gauged. There was no statistical difference in size between DM and non-DM (in millimeters) at each artery. All ratios ranged from 0.9 to 1.2, indicating similarity between DM and non-DM. The only significant risk factor for operative death was low left ventricular ejection fraction (P = 0.001). Conclusions Patients with DM were sicker but tolerated off-pump coronary artery bypass grafting as well as non-DM patients. The number of grafts per patient and O/P ratio signify the ability to perform complete revascularization. We are able to bypass the small target vessels, as anticipated. Diabetes is not a predictor of the outcomes.
Technical Innovations in the Minimally Invasive Approach for Treating Pectus Excavatum: A Paradigm Shift through Six Years’ Experience with 630 Patients
Authors: Park Hyung Joo 
Published: May 2008

Objective The multiple-momentum (MM) based multitarget (MT) approach has been developed through a single surgeon's experience to overcome the limits of the conventional Nuss procedure, which is the single target-single momentum approach that corrects only symmetric pectus excavatum (PE). The new techniques that have been devised on a morphologic basis, according to the Terrain Contour Matching (TERCOM) system, have made this approach a comprehensive one that can cover all types of pectus deformity. The aim of this study was to elucidate the difference between the conventional technique and the new approach. Methods The data of 630 PE patients who received the modified Nuss procedure, based on the MM-MT-TERCOM approach, between 1999 and 2005, were retrospectively studied. The conceptual differences between the new approach and the conventional one were determined. The techniques according to a new paradigm, for treating asymmetry, adults, and complex morphology, as well as the bar fixation technique, were analyzed. The results of the repair were assessed with a new CT index, the Asymmetry Index (AI). Results According to the morphologic classification, 269 patients were asymmetric (42.7%): 138 were eccentric (53 Grand Canyon type), 88 were unbalanced, and 36 were combined. On the basis of the MM-MT-TERCOM concept for repairing complex morphology, multiple targets were selected in 224 patients (35.6%). To correct targets simultaneously, positive momentum (630 patients, 100%) and negative momentum (124 patients, 19.7%) were applied as appropriate. The techniques used were an asymmetric bar (250 patients, 39.7%), a seagull bar (107 patients, 17%), a complex bar via TERCOM (126 patients, 20%), the crest compression technique (59 patients, 9.4%), and a compound bar (84 patients, 13.3%). The postoperative changes of the AI were from 1.03 ± 0.06 to 1.02 ± 0.13 (P = 0.117) in the symmetric group and they were from 1.1 ± 0.05 to 1.02 ± 0.02 (P < 0.001) in the asymmetric group. Conclusions Refinement of techniques in accordance with the morphology and cause-effect basis of the bar action provided reproducible results for achieving postrepair symmetry for treating complex PE. Therefore, the new approach with techniques that use multiple momentums (MM-MT-TERCOM) supports the new paradigm of the Nuss procedure is effective in repair of all morphologic types of PE.