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Between 10% and 20% of neonates born to mothers with myasthenia gravis (MG) develop neonatal MG due to the transfer of maternal autoantibodies across the placenta. Neonatal MG can occur in infants born not only from mothers with acetylcholine receptor (AChR) or muscle-specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) antibodies but also from mothers without detectable muscle antibodies. The low incidence rate may be due to specific autoantibody characteristics that differ among individuals, but a genetic predisposition in some infants is possible. The majority of reported neonatal MG cases are anti-AChR antibody-positive (AChR-MG), and a high anti-fetal/anti-adult AChR titer ratio in the mother is predictive of its occurrence. However, patients with anti-MuSK antibody-positive MG (MuSK-MG) are more likely to experience exacerbations during pregnancy and have a higher probability of developing neonatal MG than AChR-MG patients. Moreover, maternal MuSK-MG may be associated with early-onset and more severe manifestations of neonatal MG. Although cholinesterase inhibitors have been effectively used for treating neonatal AChR-MG, neonatal MuSK-MG may be more difficult to treat with this type of medication. Maternal MuSK-MG usually greatly benefits from intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and plasma exchange. In neonatal MG, IVIG is considered for severely affected infants with MuSK-MG, but the efficacy of IVIG remains unclear. Although exchange transfusion may be a management adjunct, its clinical benefits are controversial. As the therapy-induced reduction of autoantibodies may be advantageous for fetal outcomes, maternal MG should be effectively treated during pregnancy. However, caution of drug contraindication during pregnancy and lactation must be exercised to avoid unwanted effects for the fetus and neonate. In the future, MG caused by anti-lipoprotein receptor-related protein 4 or other antibodies might be also identified in pregnant women and neonates. Therefore, the determination of autoantibody specificity is essential for successful management.

Background There is controversy among arthroplasty surgeons in regard to performing unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) in obese patients based on current literature. The aim of this study is to investigate whether UKA is associated with increased complications and revision rates in obese (body mass index [BMI] > 30 kg/m2), morbidly obese (BMI > 40 kg/m2), and super morbid obese (BMI > 50 kg/m2) patients. Methods We retrospectively reviewed all UKAs performed at our institution from January 2008 to December 2017. A total of 2178 UKA procedures were performed during this period. The patients were categorized based on BMI to include normal weight (BMI = 20-30 kg/m2), obese (BMI ≥ 30.1-40 kg/m2), morbidly obese (BMI ≥ 40.1-50 kg/m2), and super morbid obese (BMI ≥ 50.1 kg/m2) groups. Record review was performed to obtain demographic data, need for revision (timing, type, and etiology), and complication rate and cause. Results The 2178 UKA cases were eligible for inclusion in this investigation. We performed 2028 medial UKAs and 150 lateral UKAs. The mean clinical follow-up period was 3.7 years, and the mean time from index surgery to revision was 7.2 years. Of the 2178 UKA cases, 1167 had a 3-year minimum follow-up. The overall revision rate in all patients was 2.2%. There was no significant difference (P > .05) in revision rates among normal weight (3.0%), obese (2.7%), morbidly obese (1.9%), and super morbid obese patients (1.8%). Most failures in all groups were secondary to progression of osteoarthritis requiring total knee arthroplasty. Conclusions Similar rates of revision were found for UKAs performed on obese, morbidly obese, or super morbid obese patients (≤2.0% revision rate) vs normal BMI (2.7% revision rate) patients. Progressive osteoarthritis was the most common mechanism of UKA failure. Obesity is not a contraindication for UKA despite previous recommendations to the contrary.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a leading cause of inappropriate shocks in patients with an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), but can also trigger episodes of ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular fibrillation (VF), leading to appropriate ICD therapies.1 Although many antiarrhythmic drugs have effects on both atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, catheter ablation is an effective therapy for both AF and VT, especially when refractory to antiarrhythmics. Left ventricular (LV) thrombus is an important contraindication to endocardial VT ablation.2

Background Ventricular tachycardia (VT) catheter ablation success may be limited when transcutaneous epicardial access is contraindicated. Surgical ablation (SurgAbl) is an option, but ablation guidance is limited without simultaneously acquired electrophysiological data. Objective We describe our SurgAbl experience utilizing contemporary electroanatomic mapping (EAM) among patients with refractory VT storm. Methods Consecutive patients with recurrent VT despite antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) and prior ablation, for whom percutaneous epicardial access was contraindicated, underwent open SurgAbl using intraoperative EAM guidance. Results Eight patients were included, among whom mean age was 63 ± 5 years, all were male, mean left ventricular ejection fraction was 39% ± 12%, and 2 (25%) had ischemic cardiomyopathy. Reasons for surgical epicardial access included dense adhesions owing to prior cardiac surgery, hemopericardium, or pericarditis (n = 6); or planned left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation at time of SurgAbl (n = 2). Cryoablation guided by real-time EAM was performed in all. Goals of clinical VT noninducibility or core isolation were achieved in 100%. VT burden was significantly reduced, from median 15 to 0 events in the month pre- and post-SurgAbl (P = .01). One patient underwent orthotopic heart transplantation for recurrent VT storm 2 weeks post-SurgAbl. Over mean follow-up of 3.4 ± 1.7 years, VT storm–free survival was achieved in 6 (75%); all continued AADs, although at lower dose. Conclusion Surgical mapping and ablation of refractory VT with use of contemporary EAM is feasible and effective, particularly among patients with contraindication to percutaneous epicardial access or with another indication for cardiac surgery.

Liver transplantation is a lifesaving treatment that improves survival and quality of life. The procedure requires adequate transplant candidate selection carried out by a multidisciplinary team. Psychosocial evaluation is a necessary part of recipient selection and its primary aims are to identify problems and psychosocial needs of the patient and his/her family, to improve transplantation outcomes. Different psychosocial conditions are considered risk factors for morbidity and mortality after transplantation. The presence of those factors per se is not an absolute contraindication, thus adequate evaluation promotes equal access to healthcare, improves results, and optimizes resources. The present review provides an overview of and guidelines for the most important psychosocial issues during the pretransplantation phase. Resumen: El trasplante hepático es un tratamiento que salva vidas, mejora la supervivencia y la calidad de vida. El procedimiento requiere de una adecuada selección de los receptores, llevada a cabo por un equipo multidisciplinario. La evaluación psicosocial es necesaria para la selección de los receptores y tiene como objetivos principales la identificación de problemas y necesidades psicosociales del paciente y su familia para mejorar los resultados del trasplante. Diferentes condiciones psicosociales son consideradas factores de riesgo para morbilidad y mortalidad posterior al trasplante. La presencia de estos factores por si solos no es considerada contraindicación absoluta, por lo que una adecuada evaluación, promueve la equidad en el acceso a la salud, mejora los resultados y optimiza los recursos. Esta revisión proporciona una visión general y una guía de los aspectos psicosociales más importantes durante la fase pre-trasplante.

Infiltrative hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a challenging imaging diagnosis due to its ill-defined appearance and variable enhancement, which may be difficult to distinguish from background changes from cirrhosis. The literature on the role of contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in the diagnosis of infiltrative HCC is currently limited. CEUS has greater sensitivity for contrast enhancement due to its temporal resolution, and can be used when there is contraindication to CT or MRI contrast. We present 3 cases where CEUS aided in the diagnosis of infiltrative HCC in patients with equivocal CT and MRI findings and/or renal failure, with significant implications for management. As current guidelines focus on the role of CEUS in characterizing defined focal liver lesions or discrete observations on precontrast US, further studies are warranted to validate the utility of CEUS in the noninvasive diagnosis of infiltrative HCC and delineate its role in algorithms for imaging workup.

Left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) has evolved as a safe alternative to oral anticoagulation therapy for stroke prophylaxis. However, the presence of a patent foramen ovale (PFO) occluder device is considered a relative contraindication. Here we report a successful case of LAAC in the presence of a PFO occluder device. (Level of Difficulty: Beginner.), Graphical abstract

Overutilization of intravenous (IV) medications can result in drug shortages, which is one of the major health care crisis, in addition to increasing costs, length of hospital stays (LOS) and the associated complications. We hypothesized that IV therapy was overused at our hospital where oral (PO) was applicable, and that the implementation of IV-PO protocol could result in a cost-effective practice. Hence, we aimed at assessing impact and outcomes of implementing such a protocol. A single center, prospective quasi-interventional study conducted at tertiary academic hospital. A protocol was implemented targeting 17 medications, with educational sessions to medical staff during a 5-month phase. IV orders of 48 h or more, among adult patients at medical or surgical wards with no contraindication to PO route were eligible. Once eligible, pharmacists send interventions using hospital’s computerized order entry system, and physicians’ responses were monitored on daily basis. Efficacy was estimated by percentage of switch recommendations that resulted in effective switch to PO medication. Cost-minimization analysis was used for course cost between the control phase and intervention phase. Length of hospital stay (LOS), readmissions within 90 days and in-hospital mortality were analyzed as secondary outcomes. During intervention phase, 781 patients had at least one IV order switched to PO. Gastric acid-reducing agents (GARAs) accounted for the most IV prescriptions (50.4%), followed by antibiotics (39.6%). Pharmacists carried out 2677 interventions to which switch recommendations were issued in 1185 (44.3%). Primary switch recommendations (N = 677) led to effective switch in 60.7% cases. These included per protocol switch (8.9%), switch to another PO (2.5%), spontaneous switch by physician (17.6%) and IV discontinuation (31.8%). The overall efficacy was estimated as 62.8%. The intervention was associated with reduced IV consumption from 4,574–18,597 vials in control phase to 3,654–15,546 vials in intervention phase, which resulted in overall cost saving of 50,960.8 SAR ($13,589.5), with an average monthly cost saving of 10,192.2 SAR ($2,717.9). Pharmacist-managed early switch from IV-PO therapy, with physicians’ education, showed significant reduction in IV medication use in our hospital. By reducing unnecessary IV use, this strategy enabled considerable cost savings, besides the potential advantages of convenience and safety.

Intravenous thrombolysis with recombinant tissue plasminogen activator (rt-PA) is the first effective approved treatment for reducing ischemic stroke disability, and having a stroke within 3 months is usually a contraindication to thrombolysis. In this paper, we describe the case of a 58-year-old patient who received repeated intravenous thrombolysis at 10 days interval for a recurrent ischemic stroke, with dramatic improvement. The carotid diaphragm was behind this recurrent stroke and it was treated by stenting.

Summary Background Chronic kidney disease-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD) has more influence in the elderly. Parathyroidectomy remains the golden standard for this situation but has tended to be excluded for older patients for many reasons. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of the surgery in the elderly population. Methods 156 patients were included and arranged into younger (≦65 years of age, n = 139) and elderly (>65 years of age, n = 17) groups. The change of bone mineral density (BMD) data, recovery potential {[(postoperative BMD) – (preoperative BMD)]/(preoperative BMD) ∗ 100%}, surgical successful rate and related complications were collected. Results Both groups exhibited significant postoperative improvement on the BMD results. The recovery potential of the elderly was not lower than the younger group. High success rate and none of persistent vocal palsy, hypocalcemia or any sequela were also observed in the elderly. Conclusions Parathyroidectomy is an effective and safe intervention for the CKD-MBD in the elderly.

Transcarotid arterial revascularization (TCAR) with flow reversal offers a less invasive option for carotid revascularization in high-risk surgical patients. TCAR has been shown to have similar complication rates for stroke and mortality compared with carotid endarterectomy and lower complication rates compared with transfemoral carotid artery stenting. A relative contraindication for carotid stenting includes heavily calcified lesions. Intravascular lithotripsy has been approved for use in other vascular beds for endovascular treatment of heavily calcified lesions. In the present report, we have demonstrated the application of intravascular lithotripsy for heavily calcified carotid lesions, enabling treatment with TCAR for those who otherwise might be at high risk of transfemoral carotid artery stenting or carotid endarterectomy.

Graphical abstract, Highlights • A TEE probe can compress an ARSA. • ARSA compression can be unsafe. • The authors offer guidelines for safe use of TEE probes.

Most patients have a time limited indication for inferior vena cava filtration. When the indication has expired, a retrievable inferior vena cava filter should be removed percutaneously, unless the risks of retrieval outweigh the benefits. Over time, long term indwelling inferior vena cava filters may experience complications, such as strut penetration, migration, thrombosis, tilt, fracture, and inferior vena cava stenosis. Long term indwelling retrievable inferior vena cava filters may become embedded in the wall of the inferior vena cava, making percutaneous retrieval difficult. However, this is not always the case, and they also may be easily and safely removed using simple techniques. We present a case of a long term indwelling retrievable inferior vena cava filter that was easily removed using simple techniques, 16.5 years after placement.

Summary: Background: Inadequate bowel preparation is associated with a decrease in adenoma detection rate (ADR). A deep learning-based bowel preparation assessment system based on the Boston bowel preparation scale (BBPS) has been previously established to calculate the automatic BBPS (e-BBPS) score (ranging 0–20). The aims of this study were to investigate whether there was a statistically inverse relationship between the e-BBPS score and the ADR, and to determine the threshold of e-BBPS score for adequate bowel preparation in colonoscopy screening. Methods: In this prospective, observational study, we trained and internally validated the e-BBPS system using retrospective colonoscopy images and videos from the Endoscopy Center of Wuhan University, annotated by endoscopists. We externally validated the system using colonoscopy images and videos from the First People's Hospital of Yichang and the Third Hospital of Wuhan. To prospectively validate the system, we recruited consecutive patients at Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University aged between 18 and 75 years undergoing colonoscopy. The exclusion criteria included: contraindication to colonoscopy, family polyposis syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, history of surgery for colorectal or colorectal cancer, known or suspected bowel obstruction or perforation, patients who were pregnant or lactating, inability to receive caecal intubation, and lumen obstruction. We did colonoscopy procedures and collected withdrawal videos, which were reviewed and the e-BBPS system was applied to all colon segments. The primary outcome of this study was ADR, defined as the proportion of patients with one or more conventional adenomas detected during colonoscopy. We calculated the ADR of each e-BBPS score and did a correlation analysis using Spearman analysis. Findings: From May 11 to Aug 10, 2020, 616 patients underwent screening colonoscopies, which evaluated. There was a significant inverse correlation between the e-BBPS score and ADR (Spearman's rank −0·976, p

Introduction: Pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum and critical pulmonary stenosis in newborns encompasses a wide spectrum of disease, including cases with significant right ventricular hypoplasia and coronary artery to right ventricle fistulae, which may be considered a contraindication for decompression of the right ventricle. The aim of this study was to review the middle- and long-term outcomes of these patients over 20 years and identify differential factors between both groups, including patients with coronary artery fistulae. Patients and methods: We performed a descriptive retrospective study by identifying all patients that received a diagnosis of pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum and critical pulmonary stenosis between January 1996 and January 2018. We collected and analysed data regarding right ventricular morphology, surgical management, percutaneous intervention and medium- and long-term outcomes. Results: 51 patients were admitted. A total of 9 patients (17.6%) died during the followup. None of the deceased patients had coronary artery to right ventricle fistulae. The median length of followup in the 42 survivors was 107.81 months (±53.56).The functional class based on the latest revision of the New York Heart Association classification was 1.2 for the overall sample. Survivors of critical pulmonary stenosis had a functional class of 1.1, and survivors of pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum a functional class of 1.6. There were no differences based on the presence or absence of coronary artery to right ventricle fistulae. Conclusions: Coronary artery to right ventricle fistulae may not be a contraindication for biventricular strategy. Patients with critical pulmonary stenosis had better outcomes compared to patients with pulmonary atresia with intact ventricular septum. The aggressive strategy of opening the pulmonary valve early on was associated with a good overall survival and correlated to a good functional class. Resumen: Introducción: Los neonatos afectos de atresia pulmonar con tabique interventricular íntegro y estenosis pulmonar crítica representan un espectro amplio, incluyendo aquellos con hipoplasia significativa del ventrículo derecho. La presencia de fístulas arteriales coronarias a ventrículo derecho puede ser una contraindicación para la descompresión del ventrículo derecho. El principal objetivo del presente trabajo es analizar los resultados a corto y largo plazo durante 20 años de estos pacientes, e identificar los factores diferenciales entre ambos grupos incluyendo aquellos pacientes afectos por fístulas arteriales coronarias. Pacientes y métodos: Este un estudio retrospectivo donde se identificaron todos los pacientes diagnosticados de atresia pulmonar con septo interventricular íntegro y estenosis pulmonar crítica entre los meses de enero de 1996 y enero de 2018. Se recogieron y analizaron las características morfológicas del ventrículo derecho, el manejo quirúrgico, la intervención percutánea y la evolución a corto y a largo plazo. Resultados: Cincuenta y un pacientes fueron incluidos. Un total de 9 (17,6%) fallecieron durante el seguimiento. Ninguno de ellos presentaba fístulas arteriales coronarias a ventrículo derecho. La media de seguimiento de los restantes 42 supervivientes fue de 107,81 meses (±53,56).La clase funcional según la New York Heart Association en la revisión más reciente fue de 1,2. Los supervivientes del grupo de estenosis pulmonar crítica presentaban una clase funcional de 1,1 y los del grupo de atresia pulmonar con tabique interventricular íntegro de 1,6. No hubo diferencias entre los pacientes que presentaban fístulas arteriales coronarias a ventrículo derecho y los que no. Conclusiones: La presencia de fístulas arteriales coronarias a ventrículo derecho no es una contraindicación para la vía biventricular. Los pacientes con estenosis pulmonar crítica presentan una mejor evolución que los afectos de atresia pulmonar con tabique interventricular íntegro. La estrategia de apertura agresiva y precoz de la válvula pulmonar tiene una buena supervivencia global correlacionada con una buena clase funcional.

Background: Data suggest that patients who undergo coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) have a lower rate of secondary preventive cardiovascular pharmacotherapy use compared with patients who undergo percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This study sought to assess the rate of use of preventive pharmacotherapy at discharge in patients who underwent CABG vs PCI post–acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Methods: A prospective cohort study was conducted at St Paul’s Hospital in Vancouver, Canada. Patients aged ≥ 18 years who presented with an ACS and underwent CABG or PCI between January and November 2018 were included. Data on preventive pharmacotherapy use and reasons for justified nonuse (eg, intolerance, contraindication) were collected. Results: A total of 275 patients were included. Mean age was 65 years, and 83% were male. Overall, 141 patients (51%) underwent CABG and 134 patients (49%) underwent PCI. All patients received acetylsalicylic acid, but more patients who underwent CABG received 325 mg (vs 80-81 mg) compared to PCI (25% vs 1%, P < 0.01). Use of P2Y12 inhibitors was higher in patients who underwent PCI (primarily ticagrelor) compared with patients who underwent CABG (primarily clopidogrel) (99% vs 26%, P < 0.01). All patients who underwent CABG received a β-blocker vs 96% of patients who underwent PCI (P = 0.017). Use of angiotensin-modulating agents was higher in patients who underwent PCI (98% vs 65%, P < 0.01). Statin use was similar between groups (99% vs 99%, P = 0.96), but more patients who underwent PCI received maximum-dose therapy (89% vs 64%, P < 0.01). Conclusions: Use of acetylsalicylic acid, β-blockers, and statins in patients post-ACS was high regardless of revascularization strategy, whereas P2Y12 inhibitors and angiotensin-modulating agents were underused in patients who underwent CABG even after adjusting for justified nonuse. Résumé: Contexte: Les données semblent indiquer que le taux de recours à une pharmacothérapie cardiovasculaire en prévention secondaire est plus faible chez les patients qui subissent un pontage aortocoronarien (PAC) que chez ceux qui subissent une intervention coronarienne percutanée (ICP). Les auteurs ont tenté d’évaluer le taux de recours à une pharmacothérapie préventive à la sortie de l’hôpital après un syndrome coronarien aigu (SCA) chez les patients ayant subi un PAC et chez ceux ayant subi une ICP. Méthode: Une étude de cohorte prospective a été menée à l’hôpital St. Paul de Vancouver, au Canada. Ont été inclus les patients âgés de 18 ans ou plus ayant présenté un SCA traité par un PAC ou par une ICP entre janvier et novembre 2018. Des données sur le recours à une pharmacothérapie préventive et les raisons justifiant le non-recours à une telle thérapie (p. ex. intolérance, contre-indication) ont été recueillies. Résultats: Au total, 275 patients ont été retenus. Les sujets avaient en moyenne 65 ans, et 83 % d’entre eux étaient des hommes. Dans l’ensemble, 141 patients (51 %) ont subi un PAC et 134 (49 %), une ICP. Tous les patients ont reçu de l’acide acétylsalicylique, mais les patients ayant subi un PAC ont été plus nombreux à recevoir une dose de 325 mg plutôt qu’une dose de 80-81 mg que chez les patients ayant subi une ICP (25 % vs 1 %, p < 0,01). L’emploi d’inhibiteurs du récepteur P2Y12 était plus fréquent chez les patients ayant subi une ICP (principalement le ticagrélor) que chez les patients ayant subi un PAC (principalement le clopidogrel) (99 % vs 26 %, p < 0,01). Tous les patients qui ont subi un PAC ont aussi reçu un bêtabloquant, comparativement à 96 % des patients qui ont subi une ICP (p < 0,017). L’emploi d’agents modulateurs de l’angiotensine était plus fréquent chez les patients ayant subi une ICP (98 % vs 65 %, p < 0,01). L’emploi de statines était comparable dans les deux groupes (99 % vs 99 %, p = 0,96), mais un plus grand nombre de patients ayant subi une ICP ont reçu un traitement à la dose maximale (89 % vs 64 %, p < 0,01). Conclusions: Le recours à l’acide acétylsalicylique, aux bêtabloquants et aux statines chez les patients ayant subi un SCA était élevé quelle que soit la stratégie de revascularisation, tandis que les inhibiteurs du récepteur P2Y12 et les agents modulateurs de l’angiotensine étaient sous-utilisés chez les patients ayant subi un PAC, même lorsqu’on tenait compte des cas de non-utilisation justifiée.

We present a case of a 59-year-old woman with a history of a right-sided patellectomy. She presented with right-sided anteromedial osteoarthritis. A unicondylar knee arthroplasty was performed. In the literature, we found only a few similar cases, with varying results. The woman in this case showed excellent postoperative clinical results. We concluded that a patellectomy may not be a contraindication for unicondylar knee arthroplasty in patients with isolated medial compartment osteoarthritis. Keywords: Unicondylar, Knee, Arthroplasty, Oxford, Patellectomy, Patella

Highlights • Necrotizing fasciitis should be recognized early and transferred to an tertiary surgical center for management. • Surgical approach should be focused on the principal of “less is more” in regards to surgical debridement technique. • Patient values were upheld, being a Jehovah’s Witness. • A multidisciplinary approach is critical for best prognosis., Introduction Necrotizing fasciitis is a severe soft tissue infection characterized by rapidly progressing necrosis involving the fascia and subcutaneous tissue. Necrotizing fasciitis of the lower extremity in a Jehovah’s Witness patient in the setting of severe anemia and systemic sepsis is uncommon. Case presentation A 62-year-old man of Jehovah’s Witness faith with a history of alcohol use disorder and uncontrolled diabetes mellitus initially presented with a non-healing diabetic foot ulcer, subsequently developed sepsis and necrotizing fasciitis. He underwent an above the knee amputation and was transferred to our institution’s Surgical Intensive Care Unit for further management. The patient presented in critical condition with a hemoglobin of 4.7 g/dL and progression of necrotizing fasciitis of the lower extremity stump. He underwent revision amputation and numerous excisional debridements along with IV antibiotics, epoetin alfa, and iron sucrose. He successfully recovered with minimal blood loss and was discharged with a hemoglobin of 8 g/dL. Discussion This case highlights some of the challenges involved in managing necrotizing fasciitis. The conversation with the Jehovah’s Witness patient in a life-threatening condition must be held with the upmost respect. Surgical decision making and operative technique is critical in determining the boundary of excisional debridement to perform in the absence of the ability to transfuse blood. The medical management was focused on resuscitation for sepsis, severe anemia, hyperglycemia, and wound management. Conclusion Severely anemic patients in critical condition can survive necrotizing fasciitis with a well-planned interdisciplinary approach without compromising patient autonomy.

Highlights • Pure AR associated with porcelain aorta can be treated with the sutureless Perceval valve. • The sutureless Perceval valve does not at all require sutures for fixation. • The nitinol stent allows excellent fixation even in an elliptic calcified annulus. • Self-expandable aortic valves are effective in the treatment of pure AR., Introduction The association of pure aortic regurgitation and porcelain aorta represents a challenging situation. In the Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) era, porcelain aorta (PA) becomes an additional risk for patient treatment and sometimes serves as the primary indication for the TAVI approach, even in low-risk patients. Devices currently on the market are not yet validated for the treatment of pure aortic regurgitation (AR) in PA and mid/long-term results are still not available. Furthermore, small calcified sinotubular junction and the association of small Valsalva sinus with low origin of coronaries ostia represent a relative contraindication of TAVI. Presentation of case We report a case of severe symptomatic AR associated with a PA in a patient successfully treated with a sutureless Perceval valve. Discussion The sutureless Perceval valve may represent an excellent option. This valve requires less manipulation of the ascending aorta and no manipulation of the aortic annulus except for the aortic valve leaflets removal. Furthermore, it can be implanted also in a small and calcified sino-tubular junction because the valve is collapsible before the implant. Conclusion The present case represents a proof that self-expandable cardiac valve technology can be employed to treat, either by surgery or by catheter, selected cases of AR. We have observed an excellent mid term result with no paravalvular leak at 2 years.

Background: We evaluated the possibility that 3.0 T MRA was sufficient for unique imaging modality before aneurysmal clipping in patients with contraindication to contrast media. Method: 13 cases (16 aneurysms) were retrospectively evaluated. Ruptured aneurysms were 3 cases (3 aneurysms). 10 cases (12 aneurysms) were operated on after preoperative evaluation using only 3.0 T MRA because of contraindication to contrast media, whereas both 3D-DSA/CTA and 3.0 T MRA were performed in 3 cases (4 aneurysms) before the operation because of each clinical reasons. In these 13 cases, we compared aneurysmal findings between intraoperative views and images of 3D-time of flight MRA with volume rendering at 3.0 T. Results: Compared to operative views, the shape of aneurysm including bleb in MRA tended not to be slightly sharp, but the size of neck and dome of aneurysms did not show significant differences. These discrepancies did not affect the intraoperative procedures. Regarding perforators, posterior communicating artery and anterior choroidal artery were confirmed in the operation as same view with MRA findings. It was difficult to distinguish double anterior communicating artery aneurysm by 3.0 T MRA. In thrombosed case, it was necessary to examine raw data of MRA as pretreatment planning tool in order to evaluate the extent of thrombus in aneurysmal neck. Reviewing the cases operated using only 3.0 T MRA retrospectively, there was no case that showed treatment planning by 3.0 T MRA was insufficient. Conclusions: This paper may suggest that treatment planning of aneurysmal clipping on the basis of 3.0 T MRA is feasible and an effective option for patients with contraindication to contrast media. Keywords: Aneurysm, Clipping, MRA, CTA, DSA, Contrast media

Purpose: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with increased rates of wound complications and reduced improvement in patient-reported outcomes across a wide range of surgical disciplines, although the impact of DM is less known after primary carpal tunnel release (CTR). This study’s hypothesis was that DM would be an independent risk factor for wound complications after CTR. Methods: This retrospective, matched, cohort study evaluated all diabetic patients with a preoperative hemoglobin A1c value within 90 days of open primary CTR at a single academic institution from 2007 to 2017. Records were reviewed to determine rates of superficial or deep surgical site infection and delayed wound healing or wound dehiscence. Additional procedures, bilateral procedures, and administration of perioperative antibiotics were also noted. We calculated unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals to determine differences in all-cause and specific wound complication rates between patients with and without DM. Results: Diabetic patients (n = 128) had an all-cause wound complication rate, surgical site infection rate, and delayed wound healing or wound dehiscence rate of 11 (8.6%), 5 (3.9%), and 6 (4.7%), respectively, compared with 8 (6.3%), 2 (1.6%), and 6 (4.7%), respectively, for nondiabetic patients (n = 128). Diabetes was not significantly associated with an increased rate of all-cause wound complications at an unadjusted odds ratio of 1.41 (range, 0.55–3.63). Rates of specific wound complications also did not differ significantly, although superficial surgical site infections were more common among patients with DM at an unadjusted odds ratio of 5.16 (range, 0.59–44.82). Conclusions: Adjusted all-cause wound complication rates did not differ significantly in a matched cohort series. Superficial surgical site infections occurred at a higher rate in patients with DM, although this difference was not statistically significant. The presence of DM is not a contraindication to proceed with CTR in symptomatic patients. Type of study/level of evidence: Therapeutic III. Key words: Carpal tunnel release, cohort, diabetes, surgical site infection, wound healing

Background: ABO blood group incompatibility between donor and recipient is associated with a number of immunohematological complications, but is not considered a major contraindication to allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. However, available evidence from the literature seems to be conflicting as to the impact of incompatibility on overall survival, event-free survival, transplant-related mortality, graft-versus-host disease, and time to neutrophil and platelet engraftment. Methods: This single-center, prospective, cohort study included patients with hematological malignancies who underwent a first allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation between 2008 and 2014. Patients receiving umbilical cord blood as the stem cell source were excluded from this analysis. The impact of ABO incompatibility was evaluated in respect to overall survival, event-free survival, transplant-related mortality, acute graft-versus-host disease and engraftment. Results: A total of 130 patients were included of whom 78 (60%) were males. The median age at transplant was 36 (range: 2–65) years, 44 (33%) presented ABO incompatibility, 75 (58%) had acute leukemia, 111 (85%) had a related donor, 100 (77%) received peripheral blood hematopoietic stem cells as graft source and 99 (76%) underwent a myeloablative conditioning regimen. There was no statistically significant association between ABO incompatibility and overall survival, event-free survival, transplant-related mortality, grade II–IV acute graft-versus-host disease, neutrophil or platelet engraftment in multivariate analysis. Conclusion: These results show that ABO incompatibility does not seem to influence these parameters in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Keywords: ABO incompatibility, Hematopoietic stem cell transplant, Outcomes of bone marrow transplantation

Aims: The BeAM value refers to the difference between a patient’s blood glucose level at bedtime (Be) and the following morning before breakfast (AM). The clinical impact of a negative BeAM value (AM blood glucose reading compared to that taken at bedtime) is unknown. Methods: T2DM patients of the OPAL and POC trials were pooled and their BeAM values calculated. Results: From a total of 358 patients, 31 were calculated as having a negative BeAM value at baseline, while 182 had a high value. Patients in the negative BeAM group were younger, had shorter diabetes duration, and lower HbA1c levels. Fasting blood glucose levels were higher in the negative BeAM group, and these increased to a greater extent during the trial periods. No significant differences in hypoglycaemia occurrence were observed. Multivariate adjusted analysis indicated no association between a negative BeAM value and achievement of HbA1c

Heart failure (HF) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) are often associated in type 2 diabetes (T2D), aggravate each other and exert synergistic effects to increase the risk of cardiac and renal events. The risks of renal worsening in HF patients and HF in CKD patients need to be evaluated to tailor preventive therapy. The recent CV and renal trials enriched our knowledge about the natural history of HF and CKD in T2D and provided evidence for the benefit of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) in HF and renal decline prevention. SGLT-2is are the best choice in patients with HFrEF to improve CV prognosis and HF-related outcomes and also to prevent kidney-related outcomes, and in CKD patients to slow down renal failure and also reduce hospitalization for HF and CV death. In both situations the number of patients to treat in order to prevent such events in one patient is lower than in the general T2D population at high CV risk. GLP1-receptor agonists could be an alternative in a patient who is intolerant or has a contraindication to SGLT-2is. A tight collaboration between diabetologists, nephrologists and cardiologists should be encouraged for a holistic and effective strategy to reduce the burden of cardio-renal-metabolic interaction.

Solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients and hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients are at greater risk of disease from Mycobacteria tuberculosis (MTB) and nontuberculous Mycobacterium (NTM) compared with the general population. For SOT recipients, MTB transmission can occur by donor transmission, reactivation from latent infection in the recipient, or new infection after the transplant. MTB from reactivation is less likely to develop in children after SOT. In contrast, MTB in HSCT patients is primarily from reactivation or new infection. Both the sensitivity of the interferon-gamma release assay and tuberculin skin test are impaired by the comorbidities associated with SOT and HCST, making the diagnosis more difficult. Treatment of active MTB and latent infection is complicated by liver toxicity and drug-drug interactions with immune-suppressant medications. Although NTM infections are uncommon, substantial morbidity and mortality may occur with NTM pulmonary and extrapulmonary infection with risk for dissemination after transplant. Lung transplant recipients are at greatest risk when infection with NTM has been diagnosed before transplantation, particularly in patients with chronic lung disease, such as cystic fibrosis. M. abscessus, in particular, may be a relative contraindication to transplantation. Although HSCT recipients can have NTM pulmonary disease, catheter-associated infection, lymphadenitis, bone and joint involvement, and disseminated disease are also seen. Expert consultation is recommended for the management of NTM infection in SOT and HSCT recipients.

A significant dysfunction of another organ is usually considered an absolute contraindication for lung transplantation, unless multiorgan transplantation is indicated and practical, as is the case of combined lung-kidney transplantation. Few cases of combined lung-kidney transplantation have been described in the literature; however, it is known that, in certain cases, it is the only way to offer an opportunity to selected patients with renal and lung dysfunction. The authors are not aware of any previously published case of a patient receiving both extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and continuous venovenous hemodiafiltration as a bridge for combined kidney-lung transplantation. The authors present the first case of combined lung-kidney transplantation performed in Portugal. info:eu-repo/semantics/publishedVersion

Purpose To report a new method for communication with deaf patients during topical anesthetic cataract surgery. Observation Due to communication difficulty, topical anesthesia was traditionally considered by many cataract surgeons as a contraindication for deaf patients. Retrobulbar/peribulbar-block anesthesia or general anesthesia were recommended. This paper reports a new way of communication using face-tapping and hand-pressing. It worked well with three deaf patients under conventional topical anesthetic cataract surgery. Conclusion and Importance The face-tapping and hand-pressing communication technique with deaf patients under conventional topical anesthetic cataract surgery seemed to work well. Topical anesthesia combined with this “touching language” could be an alternative to traditional local block and general anesthesia for deaf patients undergoing cataract surgery. Large studies are recommended to confirm its safety and validation.

BackgroundChronic pulmonary infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa is one of the most important causes of mortality and morbidity in cystic fibrosis. If antibiotics are commenced promptly, infection can be eradicated. The aim of the trial was to compare the effectiveness and safety of intravenous ceftazidime and tobramycin versus oral ciprofloxacin in the eradication of P aeruginosa.MethodsWe did a multicentre, parallel group, open-label, randomised controlled trial in 72 cystic fibrosis centres (70 in the UK and two in Italy). Eligible participants were older than 28 days with an isolate of P aeruginosa (either the first ever isolate or a new isolate after at least 1 year free of infection). Participants were excluded if the P aeruginosa was resistant to, or they had a contraindication to, one or more of the trial antibiotics; if they were already receiving P aeruginosa suppressive therapy; if they had received any P aeruginosa eradication therapy within the previous 9 months; or if they were pregnant or breastfeeding. We used web-based randomisation to assign patients to 14 days intravenous ceftazidime and tobramycin or 12 weeks oral ciprofloxacin. Both were combined with 12 weeks inhaled colistimethate sodium. Randomisation lists were generated by a statistician, who had no involvement in the trial, using a computer-generated list. Randomisation was stratified by centre and because of the nature of the interventions, blinding was not possible. Our primary outcome was eradication of P aeruginosa at 3 months and remaining free of infection to 15 months. Primary analysis used intention to treat (powered for superiority). Safety analysis included patients who received at least one dose of study drug. TORPEDO-CF was registered on the ISRCTN register, ISRCTN02734162, and EudraCT, 2009-012575-10.FindingsBetween Oct 5, 2010, and Jan 27, 2017, 286 patients were randomly assigned to treatment: 137 to intravenous antibiotics and 149 to oral antibiotics. 55 (44%) of 125 participants in the intravenous group and 68 (52%) of 130 participants in the oral group achieved the primary outcome. Participants randomly assigned to the intravenous group were less likely to achieve the primary outcome, although the difference between groups was not statistically significant (relative risk 0·84, 95% CI 0·65–1·09; p=0·18). 11 serious adverse events occurred in ten (8%) of 126 participants in the intravenous antibiotics group and 17 serious adverse events in 12 (8%) of 146 participants in the oral antibiotics group.InterpretationCompared with oral therapy, intravenous antibiotics did not achieve sustained eradication of P aeruginosa in a greater proportion of patients with cystic fibrosis and was more expensive. Although there were fewer hospitalisations in the intravenous group than the oral group during follow-up, this confers no advantage over oral treatment because intravenous eradication frequently requires hospitalisation. These results do not support the use of intravenous antibiotics to eradicate P aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis.FundingNational Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment Programme.

Introduction A 55 year old man who suffered from recurrent traumatic multi-organ bleeding presented with deterioration in kidney function and pulmonary embolism caused by a newly diagnosed renal vein thrombosis during hospitalisation. Report Complete clot removal was performed successfully by catheter directed aspiration. Thrombotic emboli were captured in a temporary filter device. A post-interventional computed tomography scan showed full restoration of the occluded renal vein. Discussion Use of a temporary catheter based vena cava filter (Capturex) during catheter directed thrombectomy is safe and should be considered to prevent thrombo-embolism in selected cases when any rheolytic therapy is contraindicated., Highlights • Catheter-based vena cava filter usage may increase the patient's safety during endovascular thrombectomy. • Renal vein thrombosis is a differential diagnosis for renal function deterioration. • Thrombo-embolism may occur during catheter directed thrombectomy.

Purpose We describe the first case of Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) reported in the English language ophthalmic literature to have undergone Laser In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery. Observations We review our patient's specific postoperative complications of myopic regression, Salzmann nodular degeneration, and dry eye syndrome, as well as the risks and consequences of performing LASIK on patients with this collagen disorder. Conclusions and importance Refractive errors may prompt EDS patients to seek laser vision correction, placing them at increased risk for complications such as myopic regression, keratectasia, and dry eye syndrome. Aberrant wound healing and collagen dysfunction may have influenced our patient's myopic regression and Salzmann nodule degeneration post-LASIK. Currently, EDS is considered a relative contraindication in LASIK due to a presumed higher risk of postoperative keratectasia; however, we believe it is possible that not all forms of EDS need to be an absolute contraindication to LASIK. More research is warranted to determine preoperative risk stratification for laser vision surgery in each subtype of EDS.

Purpose Current acute migraine treatment consists of migraine-specific agents, namely triptans, as well as non-specific analgesia, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and acetaminophen (paracetamol). Both have tolerability issues, or are not indicated, or both, in many patients; they may also lead to medication overuse headache. We aimed to review the available evidence supporting the use of migraine-specific acute, and possibly preventive, small molecules targeting the CGRP receptor, their mechanism of action, pharmacology and data from available clinical trials. Methods We performed a literature search of the PubMed and Cochrane databases in March 2020, using the keywords: “CGRP receptor antagonists”, “gepants”, “CGRP receptor blockers” and “CGRP acute medication”. In total, 24 published studies were included. Results The development of first generation gepants was stopped either because of hepatic safety issues or for commercial reasons. Second generation gepants reviewed here are rimegepant, ubrogepant, atogepant and vazegepant. Rimegepant and ubrogepant have shown positive results as acute treatments leading to FDA approval. Rimegepant and atogepant have positive results as preventive treatments, with the latter being developed only for this indication. Vazegepant, with positive preliminary data, would be the first intranasal acute treatment gepant. Vascular diseases are not a contraindication to gepants and the available evidence suggests these drugs would not lead to medication overuse headache. Conclusion Positive efficacy, safety and tolerability data has been reported for all gepants currently in clinical use or development. They offer an entirely novel class of treatment for migraine.

Background Tocilizumab was approved for chimeric antigen receptor T–cell therapy induced cytokine release syndrome and it may provide clinical benefit for selected COVID–19 patients. Methods In this retrospective cohort study, we analyzed hypoxic COVID–19 patients who were consecutively admitted between March 13, 2020 and April 19, 2020. Patients with lung infiltrates and elevated inflammatory markers received a single dose of tocilizumab if no contraindication was present. Systemic steroid, hydroxychloroquine, and azithromycin were concomitantly used for majority of the patients. Findings Of the 51 patients included for analysis, 28 (55%) received tocilizumab and 23 (45%) did not receive tocilizumab. Tocilizumab cohort required more invasive ventilation (68% vs. 22%) at baseline and during entire hospitalization (75% vs. 48%). The median time to clinical improvement in tocilizumab vs. no tocilizumab cohorts was 8 days (Interquartile range [IQR]: 6·25 – 9·75 days) vs. 13 days (IQR: 9·75 – 15·25 days) among patients who required mechanical ventilation at any time (Hazard ratio for clinical improvement: 1·83, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0·57 – 5·84) and 6·5 days vs. 7 days among all patients (Hazard ratio for clinical improvement: 1·14, 95% CI: 0·55 – 2·38), respectively. The median duration of vasopressor support and invasive mechanical ventilation were 2 days (IQR: 1·75 – 4·25 days) vs. 5 days (IQR: 4 – 8 days), p = 0.039, and 7 days (IQR: 4 – 14 days) vs. 10 days (IQR: 5 – 15 days) in tocilizumab vs. no tocilizumab cohorts, p = 0.11, respectively. Similar rates of hospital–acquired infections occurred in both cohorts (18% in tocilizumab and 22% in no tocilizumab cohort). Interpretation In patients with severe COVID-19, tocilizumab was associated with significantly shorter duration of vasopressor support. Although not statistically significant, tocilizumab also resulted in shorter median time to clinical improvement and shorter duration of invasive ventilation. These findings require validation from ongoing clinical trials of Tocilizumab in COVID–19 patients.

Intradialytic hypotension is a frequent complication of chronic kidney disease. According to different authors, the incidence of this condition varies in severity and being recorded in 10–70% of cases during chronic intermittent hemodialysis. The development of severe chronic intradialytic hypotension in most cases is considered as a relative contraindication to kidney transplantation due to the risk of the graft dysfunction and loss in the early postoperative period. Meanwhile, there is no consensus on the lower limit of blood pressure, which would be an absolute contraindication for kidney transplantation. In addition, patients with intradialytic hypotension have the dialysis session reduced which leads to inadequate dialysis; also, they often have such complications as thrombosis of an arteriovenous fistula, as a result of which further dialysis sessions become impossible. In such cases, renal transplantation is a risky, but lifesaving operation. We present a clinical case report of kidney allotransplantation in a female patient with a history of bilateral nephrectomy, who had been suffering from severe chronic intradialytic hypotension for three years before the operation. After allograft transplantation, her blood pressure was normalized to reference values, and the graft function fully recovered. Keywords: Kidney transplantation, Intradialytic hypotension, End-stage renal disease, Bilateral nephrectomy

Acute kidney injury (AKI) remains a common complication of cancer treatment and entails increased length of stay, cost, and mortality. The etiology of AKI may be direct injury from the underlying malignancy, drug toxicity, related to stem cell transplant, or from treatment complications. Advances in immunotherapy and targeted therapy have also highlighted the nephrotoxic potential of many of these drugs. Patients with liquid tumors (leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma) have the highest incidence of AKI, especially in the critical care setting. Although AKI does tend to improve in survivors, renal recovery is less likely with more severe grade of AKI. Baseline chronic kidney disease also confers an increased risk of AKI during cancer treatment. Although cancer itself is not a contraindication for starting renal replacement therapy (RRT), the benefits of RRT must be weighed against the overall prognosis of the patient and quality of life. A multidisciplinary discussion between the patient, nephrologist, oncologist, intensivist, and palliative care physician is often necessary to make an informed clinical decision.

Objectives: The study aimed to develop evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RPILD) associated with the anti-Melanoma Differentiation-Associated Gene 5-positive dermatomyositis (DM) syndrome. Methods: The task force comprised an expert panel of specialists in rheumatology, intensive care medicine, pulmonology, immunology, and internal medicine. The study was carried out in two phases: identifying key areas in the management of DM-RPILD syndrome and developing a set of recommendations based on a review of the available scientific evidence. Four specific questions focused on different treatment options were identified. Relevant publications in English, Spanish or French up to April 2018 were searched systematically for each topic using PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, and Cochrane Library (Wiley Online). The experts used evidence obtained from these studies to develop recommendations. Results: A total of 134 studies met eligibility criteria and formed the evidentiary basis for the recommendations regarding immunosuppressive therapy and complementary treatments. Overall, there was general agreement on the initial use of combined immunosuppressive therapy. Combination of high-dose glucocorticoids and calcineurin antagonists with or without cyclophosphamide is the first choice. In the case of calcineurin antagonist contraindication or treatment failure, switching or adding other immunosuppressants may be individualized. Plasmapheresis, polymyxin B hemoperfusion and/or intravenous immunoglobulins may be used as rescue options. ECMO should be considered in life-threatening situations while waiting for a clinical response or as a bridge to lung transplant. Conclusions: Thirteen recommendations regarding the treatment of the anti-MDA5 positive DM-RPILD were developed using research-based evidence and expert opinion. This project was supported by Spanish Rheumatology Society and Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (GEAS, Study Group on Autoimmune Diseases).

Monitoring pupil size and response has been an important component of neurologic evaluation in both adult and pediatric populations. Undilated handheld optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an alternative method to evaluate the retina and the optic nerve in infants, with a relative contraindication to pharmacologic pupil dilation. This imaging approach is useful for repeated assessments to monitor changes in response to treatment and provides a platform to study the ocular manifestations of neurologic diseases.

BACKGROUND: Portal vein tumor thrombosis (PVTT) is regarded as a contraindication for liver transplantation (LT) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, some of these patients may have a favorable prognosis after LT. In this study, we evaluated the biological behavior of HCC with PVTT using tumor biomarker (alpha-fetoprotein, AFP) and 18F-FDG positron emission tomography (tumor standard uptake value) to identify a subset of patients who may be suitable for LT. METHODS: Seventy-five HCC-PVTT liver recipients transplanted during February 2016 and June 2018 were analyzed. Different pre-transplant prognostic factors were identified by univariate and multivariate analyses. PVTT status was identified following Vp classification (Vp1-Vp4). RESULTS: Three-year recurrence-free survival and overall survival rates were 40% and 65.4% in Vp2-Vp3 PVTT patients, 21.4% and 30.6% in Vp4 PVTT patients (P < 0.05). Total tumor diameter >8 cm, pre-transplant AFP level >1000 ng/mL and intrahepatic tumor maximal standard uptake value (SUVmax-tumor >5) were independent risk factors for HCC recurrence and overall survival after LT in Vp2-3 PVTT patients. Low risk patients were defined as total tumor diameter ≤8 cm; or if total tumor diameter more than 8 cm, with both pre-transplant AFP level less than 1000 ng/mL and intrahepatic tumor SUVmax less than 5, simultaneously. Twenty-two Vp2-3 PVTT HCC patients (46.8%) were identified as low risk patients, and their 3-year recurrence-free and overall survival rates were 67.6% and 95.2%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with segmental or lobar PVTT and biologically favorable tumors defined by AFP and 18F-FDG SUVmax might be suitable for LT.

Highlights • Heterotopic ossification is a major complication after surgical treatment of acetabular fractures. • Whether delayed or early surgical resection of heterotopic ossification is more effective remains controversial. • Early surgical resection is not necessarily contraindication., Introduction Heterotopic ossification is a major complication after surgical treatment of acetabular fractures. Heterotopic ossification generally involves the large joints, often limits the range of motion, and may cause ankylosis. Presentation of case This case report describes a 59-year-old man with severe heterotopic ossification who developed an acetabular fracture and resultant hip ankylosis, which was rescued by surgical resection of the heterotopic ossification. He had accompanying head injury and multiple other fractures, which were treated conservatively. Open reduction with internal fixation of the acetabular fracture was performed through the ilioinguinal and Kocher–Langenbeck combined approach. The patient unexpectedly returned to our hospital 7.5 months after the fracture surgery. We found that his left hip joint was completely ankylosed by severe heterotopic ossification. We performed surgical resection of the heterotopic ossification through a direct lateral approach 9.5 months after the initial surgery. At the final follow-up, 5.5 years after the heterotopic ossification resection surgery, the hip function including the range of motion was satisfactory. Radiographs showed no signs of recurrence, and he could walk with no support. Discussion The only effective treatment for established HO is surgical excision. Whether delayed or early surgical resection of heterotopic ossification is more effective remains controversial. Conclusion We considered that waiting for a long time before surgical resection of the heterotopic ossification would lead to more disability, and early resection of the heterotopic ossification was not a contraindication despite the fact that the uptake on the bone scan was still intense.

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are effective therapy to prevent pulmonary embolism in patients with contraindication to anticoagulation. However, IVC wall penetration by the filter struts is a common complication that can lead to symptoms specially when adjacent organs are impacted. This case report and video describe the wire loop technique for successful endovascular IVC filter retrieval in a patient with lower back pain caused by a spinal strut penetration. The patient's back pain resolved after filter retrieval and he remained stable on anticoagulation with no recurrence of venous thromboembolism.

Portal vein thrombosis is common in cirrhotic patients and results in increased morbidity and mortality. Transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) creation is a well-established therapy for refractory variceal bleeding and refractory ascites in patients who do not tolerate repeated large volume paracentesis. Experience and technical improvements have led to improved TIPS outcomes that have encouraged an expanded application. Complete portal vein thrombosis has come a long way from being a contraindication to an indication for TIPS procedure. As experience and technology have evolved, the ultrasound guidance transvenous access of portal vein from the hepatic vein help in overall higher success rate of performing the TIPS procedure and reducing the procedure-related complications.

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) can disseminate to extrapulmonary organs, particularly in severely immunosuppressed patients. Confirmation of active MTB infection is often difficult in subjects with a contraindication for invasive procedures. A case of disseminated MTB infection after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is reported herein. Circulating cell-free DNA from the patient showed positive amplification of an MTB complex-specific sequence using a digital PCR technique. The MTB infection was confirmed by positive acid-fast staining and an approved quantitative PCR assay using liver tissue obtained at autopsy. The detection of MTB in circulating cell-free DNA using this technique may represent a less invasive diagnostic tool for pulmonary and extrapulmonary MTB infections.

Introduction Due to demographic changes, the annual incidence of femoral neck fractures (FNF) in patients reaching the 9th and 10th decade of life is increasing. Although active and cognitively intact elderly patients could benefit from total hip arthroplasty (THA) in case of a FNF, there is no clear consensus on whether THA should be performed in this particular subgroup of patients with very advanced age. The purpose of this study was to report the complication rate, mortality, clinical outcomes and quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained in patients treated with total THA for FNF, while having exceeded the mean life expectancy at the time of surgery, compared to a younger control group. Materials and Methods Patients treated with THA through a direct anterior approach (DAA) for FNF and exceeding the average life expectancy in Switzerland (age ≥ 83 y, n = 45) were matched for gender, body mass index (BMI) and ASA score with patients under the age of 83 (age = 65-83, n = 45). Perioperative complications, clinical and radiologic outcomes, as well as mortality were compared between groups. Results Total complication rate did not differ significantly with 22.2% in the older group compared to 17.8% in the control group. The 30-day and 1-year mortality was slightly but not significantly higher in the older group (2.2% and 8.9% vs. 2.2% and 2.2%). The average QALY gained was 3.4 years and 4.1 years for the older group and their younger counterparts, respectively. Conclusion THA through the DAA for FNF in cognitively intact and active patients might be a credible and safe option even after reaching mean life expectancy with excellent functional outcomes and similar surgery-related complications compared to patients younger than 83 years. Our results imply that an advanced age should not be considered a contraindication for THA in case of a FNF.

Introduction Arthroplasty has always been associated with complications, such as the possibility of periprosthetic infection. The presence of an active infection at the site of the planned surgery is considered a contraindication for the new implant. However, it is unclear whether there is an association between the presence of remote musculoskeletal infection and the development of infection in the prosthetic joint itself. We report six cases involving patients with active ongoing musculoskeletal infections at a remote site who underwent arthroplasty. Presentation of cases Four male and two female patients were included in this review. Three patients underwent total hip arthroplasty, one underwent hip hemiarthroplasty, and two underwent total knee arthroplasty. All surgeries were performed in the presence of different stages of infection at a remote site; two had active infections with pus-discharging sinus, one was being treated with long-term oral antibiotic suppression, and three patients were diagnosed with remote prosthetic joint infections on the basis of joint aspiration or intraoperative cultures. Clinical assessments of pain, wound erythema or drainage, and soft tissue swelling were performed at follow-up. Radiography and analysis of inflammatory marker levels were performed preoperatively and 6 weeks postoperatively. Discussion All six patients were followed-up for at least 18 months (mean, 4.6 years; range, 18 months to 9 years). No evidence of superficial surgical-site infection or deep prosthetic joint infection was observed. Conclusion The presence of an active infection at a remote site might not be a contributing factor to periprosthetic joint infection.

Major previous abdominal surgery involving more than one abdominal quadrant may be considered a relative contraindication to robotic assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) due to the potential increased risk of adhesions, bowel injuries, and is often associated with longer operating time and increased blood loss. We describe the use of a mini-laparotomy to allow safe port placement with extensive open and robotic adhesiolysis at the time of RARP with an excellent post-operative recovery, good oncologic and functional outcomes. Keywords: Robotic, Prostatectomy, Previous abdominal surgery